You have earned the right to be in this position - Virat Kohli’s special message to new RCB captain Rajat Patidar

Virat Kohli shared some special words of praise and appreciation for Rajat Patidar, who was announced as the new RCB captain ahead of the IPL 2025 season.

On an episode of Bold Diaries, Virat said, “Rajat, firstly I want to congratulate you, wish you all the best. The way you have grown in the franchise and the way you have performed, you have made a place in all the hearts of the fans of RCB, all over India and they get really excited to watch you play, so this is very well deserved.”

The RCB legend also shed some light on how himself and Faf have donned the captain’s hat in the past, and the new role will be a massive honour for Patidar.

“Myself and the other team members will be right behind you, you’ll have all our support to grow into the role. So it’s a big responsibility, I’ve done it for many years and Faf’s done it for the last few years and to be seen as the guy who will take this franchise forward, I’m sure it’s a huge honour for you and I’m very very happy for you. You have earned the right to be in this position.”

Virat also showered praise on Rajat for the way he’s grown as a player, particularly as the captain of his state side.

“I’ve seen Rajat evolve in the last couple of years as a player, he’s got the chance to play for India, his game has improved many levels in the last couple of years the way he has led his state team as well and the responsibility that he’s taken and he’s shown everyone that he has what it takes to lead this amazing franchise.”

The former RCB skipper concluded with some of his best wishes for Rajat, apart from asking the fans to get behind the new skipper.

“I wish him all the very best and I would request all the fans to show him absolute support, get behind him and know that he will always, and always do what’s best for the team, best for this franchise and we must get together and support him because, regardless of what happens, who does what, important thing is the team and the most important thing is the franchise and we all have a responsibility to grow towards the growth of this amazing team and this amazing franchise.”

“Sending my best wishes to him and sending all the fans lots of love and looking forward to see you soon and have Rajat start off the season with a bang.”