The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the schedule for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. The season will commence on March 22 at the Eden Gardens, where defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a thrilling opener.

Key matches in the league stage

The second day of the tournament, March 23, will feature an exciting clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Hyderabad. On the same day, IPL’s two most successful teams, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI), will lock horns in a high-profile encounter.

Playoffs and final venues confirmed

The playoffs for IPL 2025 are set to take place between May 20 and May 25. The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad will host the first two knockout matches, with Qualifier 1 scheduled for May 20 and the Eli??minator on May 21. The tournament will conclude in Kolkata, where Qualifier 2 and the grand final will be played at ??the iconic Eden Gardens.

League format and venues

This season, each team will play 14 matches during the league phase, contributing to a total of 70 league matches. T??he 2025 edition of the IPL will be hosted across 13 venues, with 74 matches scheduled over a span of 65 days. Fans will be treated to a double-header between CSK and MI, as the two powerhouses are set to face each other twice in the lea??gue stage.

With an action-packed schedule, IPL 2025 promises to be another thrilling season filled with intense competi??tion and blockbuster encounters.

Also READ: Not Ajinkya Rahane! Aakash C??hopra predict the potentia?l captain of KKR in IPL 2025

Complete fixtures of IPL 2025

• March 22, 2025 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Kolkata)
• March 23, 2025 – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals (Hyderabad)
• March 23, 2025 – Chennai Super Kings vs Mumbai Indians (Chennai)
• March 24, 2025 – Delhi Capitals vs Lucknow Super Giants (Visakhapatnam)
• March 25, 2025 – Gujarat Titans vs Punjab Kings (Ahmedabad)
• March 26, 2025 – Rajasthan Royals vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Guwahati)
• March 27, 2025 – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Lucknow Super Giants (Hyderabad)
• March 28, 2025 – Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Chennai)
• March 29, 2025 – Gujarat Titans vs Mumbai Indians (Ahmedabad)
• March 30, 2025 – Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Visakhapatnam)
• March 30, 2025 – Rajasthan Royals vs Chennai Super Kings (Guwahati)
• March 31, 2025 – Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Mumbai)
• April 1, 2025 – Lucknow Super Giants vs Punjab Kings (Lucknow)
• April 2, 2025 – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Titans (Bengaluru)
• April 3, 2025 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Kolkata)
• April 4, 2025 – Lucknow Super Giants vs Mumbai Indians (Lucknow)
• April 5, 2025 – Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Capitals (Chennai)
• April 5, 2025 – Punjab Kings vs Rajasthan Royals (New Chandigarh)
• April 6, 2025 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Lucknow Super Giants (Kolkata)
• April 6, 2025 – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Gujarat Titans (Hyderabad)
• April 7, 2025 – Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Mumbai)
• April 8, 2025 – Punjab Kings vs Chennai Super Kings (New Chandigarh)
• April 9, 2025 – Gujarat Titans vs Rajasthan Royals (Ahmedabad)
• April 10, 2025 – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals (Bengaluru)
• April 11, 2025 – Chennai Super Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Chennai)
• April 12, 2025 – Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans (Lucknow)
• April 12, 2025 – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings (Hyderabad)
• April 13, 2025 – Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Jaipur)
• April 13, 2025 – Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians (Delhi)
• April 14, 2025 – Lucknow Super Giants vs Chennai Super Kings (Lucknow)
• April 15, 2025 – Punjab Kings vs Kolkata Knight Riders (New Chandigarh)
• April 16, 2025 – Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals (Delhi)
• April 17, 2025 – Mumbai Indians vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Mumbai)
• April 18, 2025 – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Punjab Kings (Bengaluru)
• April 19, 2025 – Gujarat Titans vs Delhi Capitals (Ahmedabad)
• April 19, 2025 – Rajasthan Royals vs Lucknow Super Giants (Jaipur)
• April 20, 2025 – Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (New Chandigarh)
• April 20, 2025 – Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings (Mumbai)
• April 21, 2025 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Gujarat Titans (Kolkata)
• April 22, 2025 – Lucknow Super Giants vs Delhi Capitals (Lucknow)
• April 23, 2025 – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Mumbai Indians (Hyderabad)
• April 24, 2025 – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Rajasthan Royals (Bengaluru)
• April 25, 2025 – Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Chennai)
• April 26, 2025 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings (Kolkata)
• April 27, 2025 – Mumbai Indians vs Lucknow Super Giants (Mumbai)
• April 27, 2025 – Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Delhi)
• April 28, 2025 – Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans (Jaipur)
• April 29, 2025 – Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Delhi)
• April 30, 2025 – Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings (Chennai)
• May 1, 2025 – Rajasthan Royals vs Mumbai Indians (Jaipur)
• May 2, 2025 – Gujarat Titans vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Ahmedabad)
• May 3, 2025 – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Chennai Super Kings (Bengaluru)
• May 4, 2025 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Rajasthan Royals (Kolkata)
• May 4, 2025 – Punjab Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants (Dharamsala)
• May 5, 2025 – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Delhi Capitals (Hyderabad)
• May 6, 2025 – Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Titans (Mumbai)
• May 7, 2025 – Kolkata Knight Riders vs Chennai Super Kings (Kolkata)
• May 8, 2025 – Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals (Dharamsala)
• May 9, 2025 – Lucknow Super Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Lucknow)
• May 10, 2025 – Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Hyderabad)
• May 11, 2025 – Punjab Kings vs Mumbai Indians (Dharamsala)
• May 11, 2025 – Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Titans (Delhi)
• May 12, 2025 – Chennai Super Kings vs Rajasthan Royals (Chennai)
• May 13, 2025 – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Bengaluru)
• May 14, 2025 – Gujarat Titans vs Lucknow Super Giants (Ahmedabad)
• May 15, 2025 – Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals (Mumbai)
• May 16, 2025 – Rajasthan Royals vs Punjab Kings (Jaipur)
• May 17, 2025 – Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Bengaluru)
• May 18, 2025 – Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings (Ahmedabad)
• May 18, 2025 – Lucknow Super Giants vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Lucknow)
• May 20, 2025 – Qualifier 1 (Hyderabad)
• May 21, 2025 – Eliminator (Hyderabad)
• May 23, 2025 – Qualifier 2 (Kolkata)
• May 25, 2025 – Final (Kolkata)

Also READ: I??PL 2025: Mumbai Indians (MI) announces replacement for Afg??hanistan’s spinner Allah Ghazanfar

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Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the reigning Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, made strategic decisions at the 2025 mega auction, prioritizing the retention of key players while strengthening their squad with new additions. Their aggressive playing style, defined by explosive batting and tactical gameplay, was further reinforced by the acquisitions of Quinton de Kock and Rovman Powell. Additionally, the franchise secured the return of young talent Angkrish Raghuvanshi for INR 3 crores, e??mphasizing their commitment to blending experience with youth.

Leadership void after Shreyas Iyer’s departure

However, amid these reinforcements, KKR faces a crucial challenge -finding a captain to replace Shreyas Iyer, who played a vital role in their championship-winning campaign but has now moved to Punjab Kings (PBKS).

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has analyzed KKR’s potential captaincy options, ruling out Ajinkya Rahane and casting doubt on Rinku Singh‘s chances. The franchise took a bold step by releasing Iyer and not bidding to reacquire him at the auction, leaving a leadership gap. While Rahane was picked up for a modest INR 1.50 crore and Rinku was retained for INR 13 crore, Chopra believed neither will be entrusted with the captaincy. He acknowledged Rahane’s strong domestic performances but dismissed his prospects as a leader for KKR. Similarly, despite Rinku’s emergence as a reliable finisher and a leader for Uttar Pradesh in domestic cricket, Chopra speculated that the franchise might exp??lore other captaincy alternatives.

“They bought Ajinkya Rahane right at the end. His first-class form has been very good and he played extremely well in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy too. So it seems like you can make Ajinkya Rahane your captain. I don’t think Ajinkya Rahane will be in their thought process. I don’t think Ajinkya Rahane is their captain. It should be a two-horse race. It has to be either Venkatesh Iyer or Rinku Singh. In my opinion, Rinku Singh’s stocks should have increased. He is UP’s captain and is a proper player. However, it doesn’t seem like they would make him their captain as well,” Chopra said on his Youtube channel.

Also READ: IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians (MI) announces replacement for Afghanistan’s spinner Allah Gha?zanfar

The frontrunner for KKR captaincy? Aakash Chopra’s ultimate choice

KKR made a headline-gr?abbing move by securing Venkatesh Iyer for a record INR 23.75 crore, making him one of the most expensive players in IPL history.

Chopra questioned whether the franchise overspent, suggesting that they could have acquired proven leaders like Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, or Rishabh Pant for a similar amount. However, he speculated that the high price tag might indicate KKR’s intention to appoint Venkatesh as their new captain. The intense bidding war with RCB to secure him further highlighted KKR’s confidence in his leaders?hip potential. Given the significant investment, it would not be surprising if the franchise hands Venkatesh the captaincy, marking a defining phase in both his career and KKR’s journey.

“You went all guns blazing and spent so much money on Venkatesh Iyer that you suddenly feel whether you spent too much. You might have got even Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan or a few other players for that much. There were plenty of options available in the auction. However, they went with Venkatesh Iyer. They kept going a long way for him. In fact, they were having a fight with RCB. In the end, they got him and I think he could be their captain. When you have invested so much money in someone, Venkatesh Iyer might be KKR’s captain,” Chopra concluded.

Also READ: 3 players who can captain Kolka??ta Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL 2025

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that the 2025 edition of? the Indian Premier League (IPL) will run from March 22 to May 25. The 18th season of the T20 extravaganza will see ten teams clash in 74 matches across 12 venues.

Opening fixture and marquee clashes

The season will launch with a high-voltage showdown between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens on March 22, setting the stage for two months of thrilling cricket. The following day, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will host Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, marking the first? double-??header weekend.

Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are slated to play their inaugural home game against arc-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) on March 23 under the lights at MA Chidambaram Stadium. This marquee evening clash between two of the league’s most successful franchises is expected to draw massive viewership.

Details for the playoffs and the final

Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi Stadium has been awarded hosting rights for Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator, while Kolkata’s Eden Gardens will stage the final on May 25. This marks Eden Gardens�?return as a finale venue after nearly a decade, with the stadium last hosting the title decider in 2??013.

Also READ: Aakash Chopra names 3 candidates for Delhi Capitals’ captaincy in IPL 2025

Team-specific venue strategies

In a strategic shift, Delhi Capitals (DC) will split their home games between Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium and Visakhapatnam’s ACA-VDCA Stadium, a move aimed at expanding their regional fanbase. Similarly, Rajasthan Royals (RR) plan to host two matches at Guwahati’s Barsapara? Stadium, revisiting a venue where they’ve previously ??enjoyed robust support.

Overall, the 2025 season will utilize 12 stadiums, the most in IPL h??istor??y, including returning and debutant venues:

• Mullanpur’s Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Stadium (Punjab Kings�?secondary home ground)
• Dharamsala’s HPCA Stadium (last used in IPL 2019)
• Barsapara Stadium, Guwahati (RR’s alternate base)

Other mainstay venues include Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, Bengaluru��s M Chinnaswamy Stadium and Ahmedabad’s Narendr??a Modi Stadium, which remains on standby for Qualifier 2.

Full list of venues for the IPL 2025:

• Ahmedabad (Narendra Modi Stadium)
• Bengaluru (M Chinnaswamy Stadium)
• Chennai (MA Chidambaram Stadium)
• Delhi (Arun Jaitley Stadium)
• Hyderabad (Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium)
• Jaipur (Sawai Mansingh Stadium)
• Kolkata (Eden Gardens)
• Lucknow (BRSABV Ekana Stadium)
• Mumbai (Wankhede Stadium)
• Mullanpur (Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium)
• Guwahati (Barsapara Stadium)
• Dharamsala (Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium)

Also READ: IPL – Complete list of all RCB captains so far ft. Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli

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Mumbai Indians (MI) have made a significant addition to their squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, as they announced replacement for Afghanistan‘s mystery spinner Allah Ghazanfar. ? Unfortunately, Ghazanfar, who was set to be part of Mumbai’s campaign, has been ruled out due to an injury, forcing the franchise to make a last-minute change. While the news comes as a setback for the young Afghan spinner, Mumbai Indians have moved swiftly to bring in an experienced T20 specialist, ensuring their squad remains balanced ?and well-equipped for the challenges ahead.

Allah Ghazanfar’s replacement: Mumbai Indians’ choince for IPL 2025

Mujeeb Ur Rahman, named as replacement,  is one of the most sought-after mystery spinners in the T20 circuit, having plied his trade across major franchise leagues around the world, including the IPL, SA20 and others. The 23-year-old has developed a reputation for being a master of dec??eption, troubling batters with his variations, including off-breaks, carrom balls, and subtle seam movement. His ability to bowl in the powerplay, middle overs, and even at the death makes him an invaluable asset to any T20 side.

Statistically, Mujeeb boasts an impressive T20 record, having scalped 275 wickets in 256 matches at a stellar economy rate of just 6.75. His economy rate is a testament to his ability to build pressure and restrict scoring opportunities, a quality that will be crucial for Mumbai as they seek to regain their dominance in IPL 2025. With his inclusion, Mumbai now possesses a formidable spin attack, complementing the likes of Karn Sharma, along with their pace arsenal led by Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult.

Also READ: Aakash Chopra names 3 candidates for Delhi Capitals�?captain??cy in IPL 2025

IPL journey comes full circle, joins five-time champions Mumbai Indians

Having previously represented Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL, Mujeeb is no stranger to India’s premier T20 tournament. However, joining Mumbai, the most successful fra?nchise in IPL history, offers him a golden opportunit?y to make a fresh impact on the grand stage. Known for their astute team management and player development, Mumbai could provide Mujeeb the perfect platform to showcase his skills at the highest level once again.

His past IPL performances have demonstrated his ability to outfox top batters, and with his r?enewed hunger to excel, he is expected to play a key role in Mumbai’s campaign. The franchise, which had a mixed outing in IPL 2024, will be aiming for a strong resurgence, and Mujeeb’s inclusion could prove to be one of their m?ost strategic acquisitions this season.

Also READ: IPL 2025??: KKR set to face RCB in the opening match of the season

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Delhi Capitals (DC) have always been a team brimming with potential but often falling short of expectations. As the franchise looks ahead to IPL 2025, the question of leadership looms large. Former India cricketer and renowned analyst Aakash Chopra has weighed in on the debate, suggesting that the Capitals have three strong options for thei??r next captain. In a recent video on his YouTube channel, Chopra named 3 DC players as the top contenders for the role.

The homegrown leader

Axar Patel, retained by the Capitals for a whopping �?6.50 crore ahead of the mega auction, has emerged as a frontrunner for the captaincy role. Chopra highlighted Axar’s all-round c??ontributions and his growing leadership credentials as key factors in his favour.

In IPL 2024, Axar showcased his value with both bat and ball, scoring 235 runs at a strike rate of 131.28 and picking up 11 wickets at ?an economy rate of 7.65. His ability to perform under pressure and his familiarity with the Delhi Capitals�?setup make him a compelling choice.

�?em>He will play the Champions Trophy as well and has been given a very important role in the Indian ODI team. He is mature. He is brilliant. He understands the pulse of the game. He puts the team ahead of himself. So he could be a great choice,�??Chopra said, suggesting that Axar’s calm demeanor and tactical acumen could be exactly what the team needs.

A proven performer

KL Rahul, acquired by the Capitals for �?4 crore, is another strong contender for the captaincy. Chopra described Rahul’s acquisition as a �?em>steal,�?given his proven track record as a leader and a consistent performer. Rahul has previously captained Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants, leading the latter to playoff qualifications in two out of three seasons. His experience at the helm, coupled with his ability to anchor ??the innings as a top??-order batter, makes him an enticing option.

�?em>The second is KL Rahul. I feel they got him cheap. It was a steal. He has got some captaincy credentials. He has captained India, the Punjab Kings, and the Lucknow Super Giants for three years, and they qualified two years as well. So he could be the captain,�?Chopra remarked.

Also READ: IPL 2025: Fo?rmer CSK player takes a dig at the newly a?ppointed RCB skipper Rajat Patidar

The out-of-the-box choice

While Axar and Rahul are the more conventional choices, Chopra also floated the idea of Faf du Plessis as a left-field option. The South A??????????????????????????frican veteran, bought by the Capitals for �? crore, brings a wealth of experience and a winning mental??ity.

Du Plessis has previously captained Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for three seasons, showcasing his ability to lead a high-profile team. Despite his age, Chopra emphasized that Du Plessis �?em>is not getting old at all�?and remains a formidable presence on the field. However, he acknowledged ?that this option might be a long shot, given the strong cases for ?Axar and Rahul.

The verdict from Aakash Chopra

Chopra concluded tha??t the race for the Delhi Capitals�?captaincy is likely to be a tight one. While Axar’s retention and growing influence within the team make him a probable choice, Rahul’s experience and leadership pedigree cannot be overlooked. Du Plessis, though an intriguing option, remains the dark horse in this contest.

�?em>I think it’s going to be a close race. One has been retained and the other has been bought. So one between the two, or else if they want to think absolutely left-field, then Faf du Plessis, who is not getting old at all. However, I have a feeling that it could be Axar,�?Chopra concluded.

Also READ: IPL 2025: K?KR set to face RCB in the opening match of the season

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With the new season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in sight, the teams are gearing up for an epic season of pinnacle league cricket with seasoned star campaigners and young emerging talents in action. Amidst heightened buzz around the new IPL season, the opening encounter has been revealed to the cricketing community. IPL has decided to continue its long tradition of starting the season with defending champions in action. Thus, the new season of the prestigious tournament is set to begin with a clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Two iconic teams set to square off in the IPL opener

According to a report from Cricbuzz, IPL 2025 is scheduled to commence on March 22, with defending champions KKR facing off against RCB at the iconic Eden Gardens. The report further states that last season’s runners-up, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), will kick off their campaign a day later, hosting Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium i?n Uppal.

While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to officially announce the complete schedule, key dates have already been shared with franchises. The grand finale is expected to follow the usual pattern, taking place in? the home city of the defending champions, meaning Eden Gardens is likely to host the final on May 25.

BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla had earlier hinted at a March 23 start following the board’s Special General Meeting (SGM) on January 12 in Mumbai. However, the tournament’s commencement date was later advanced by a day. The full IPL 2025 schedule is anticipated to be released soon.

Also Read: Breakdown of RCB captain Rajat P?atidar’s IPL salary since debut

New venues added to the IPL roster

The new IPL season is set to expand beyond its 10 regular venues by introducing matches in Guwahati and Dharamsala. Royals have designated Guwahati as their second home venue and will host two crucial evening encounters there, facing KKR on March 26 and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 30. Meanwhile, Dharamsala, which hosted two Punjab Kings�?home matches last season, is set to feature at least two and potentially three games this year.  As for the knockout stage, Hyderabad has been selected to host Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator, while Qualifier 2 and the grand finale will take place at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, the home ground of defe?nding champions Kolkata Knight Riders.

Also Read: 3 reasons why Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) can win IPL 2025 under Rajat Patidar’s capta??incy

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been in the headlines once again with the announcement of Rajat Patidar as their new captain for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). As the team gears up for an exciting season of IPL action, the appointment of Patidar as the new leader of the new is anticipated to deliver the confidence boost the team so desperately needs in their quest to li?ft the coveted IPL title for the first time.

RCB’s squad boasts several legendary players who have graced the team with their presence and leadership. In light of the glorious past of the franchise and Patidar’s appointment as the leader of the squad for the upcoming season, here is the complete list of RCB captains so far.

List of all RCB captains so far

(1) Rahul Dravid:

Rahul Dravid had the distinction of being RCB’s first-ever captain in the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008. However, his leadership tenure was short-lived, as RCB endured a disappointing campaign, winning only 4 out of 14 matches and finishing 7th on the points table. Despite Dravid’s vast experience and tactical acumen, the team struggled to find momentum throughout the season. As a result, his stint as captain lasted only one season before the franchise opted for a leadership change in search of better results.

(2) Kevin Pietersen:

Kevin Pietersen took over the captaincy of RCB in the 2009 season, succeeding Dravid. However, his tenure at the helm was brief, lasting only six matches. Under his leadership, RCB m?anaged just two wins while suffering four defeats, failing to build consistent momentum. Despite Pietersen’s aggressive and attacking approach, the team struggled to translate his leadership into positive results. As a result, his stint as captain was cut short mid-season, prompting the franchise to make a change in search of a more effective leadership strategy.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Why Rajat Patidar was chosen as RCB Ca??ptain? Andy Flower hig??hlights 3 key qualities

(3) Anil Kumble:

Anil Kumble took over the captaincy of RCB midway through the 2009 season, replacing Pietersen, and orchestrated a remarkable turnaround for the franchise. Under his astute leadership, RCB surged to the final, narrowly missing out on the title with a six-run loss to the Deccan Chargers (DC). Building on that success, Kumble led the team once again in the 2010 season, guiding them to a fourth-place finish in the league stage before bowing out in the semi-finals against Mumbai Indians (MI). Across his tenure, Kumb?le captained RCB in 35 ?matches, securing 19 victories and suffering 16 defeats.

(4) Daniel Vettori:

Former New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori became the fourth skipper RCB in the IPL, leading the team in the 2011 and 2012 seasons. Under his captaincy, RCB enjoyed a fairly successful run, winning 15 out of 28 matches. Vettori’s leadership played a crucial role in guiding the team to the final of the 2011 season, where they eventually fell short against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), losing by 58 runs. However, the 2012 campaign proved to be less fruitful, as RCB failed to secure a playoff spot, finishing fifth in the league stage. Despite the mixed results, Vettori’s calm demeanor and tactical acumen left a lasting impact on the franchise.

(5) Virat Kohli:

Virat Kohli stands as the longest-serving captain in the history of RCB, leading the franchise across multiple seasons with unwavering commitment. He first took charge in 2011, stepping in for Vettori, before being appointed as the full-time captain in 2013. Over the years, Kohli led RCB in a record 143 matches, securing 66 victories while facing 70 defeats. His most notable campaign came in the 2016 season when he delivered an extraordinary individual performance, amassing a record-breaking 973 runs, and guiding RCB to the final. However, the team narrowly missed out on their maiden title, falling short by eight runs against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Despite the highs and lows, Kohli’s passion, aggress?ion, and? loyalty defined his tenure as captain. After nearly a decade of leadership, he stepped down following the 2021 season, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and an unrelenting quest for IPL glory.

(6) Shane Watson:

Shane Watson had a brief stint as captain of ?RCB during the 2017 IPL season, stepping in for Virat Kohli in three matches. Under his leadership, RCB managed just one win while suffering two defeats. Unfortunately, Watson’s overall tenure with the franchise was underwhelming, as he s??truggled to make a significant impact with both bat and ball.

Across two seasons, he played 24 matches, scoring 250 runs and taking 25 wickets but failing to deliver match-winning performances consistently. However, his IPL career saw a resurgence when he moved to CSK in 2018, where he rediscovered his form and went on to play a crucial role in the?ir title-winning campaign.

(7) Faf du Plessis:

Faf du Plessis took over the captaincy of RCB in 2022, succeeding Kohli, and made an immediate impact by leading the team to Qualifier 2 in his debut season as skipper. Over his 3-year tenure from 2022 to 2024, he brought stability and experience to the squad, guiding them through both highs and lows. Under his leadership, RCB secured 21 wins in 42 matches, maintaining a balanced win-loss ratio of 1. While the team finished sixth in the 2023 season, they bounced back in 2024 to secure a playoff spot, only to fall short in the Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals (RR). Despite not clinching the elusive IPL title, Faf’s leadership, consistency, and aggressive batting set a strong foundatio??n f??or the franchise’s future aspirations.

(8) Rajat Patidar:

RCB appointed Rajat Patidar as their 8th captain for the 2025 IPL season, marking a new chapter in the franchise’s history. Having joined RCB in 2021, he has established himself as a key middle-order batter, amassing 799 runs in 27 matches at an impressive average of 34 and a blistering strike rate of 159. Patidar’s leadership credentials stem from his experience captaining Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket. His rise to prominence earned him an international debut in December 2023, representing India during an ODI clash against South Africa in Paarl.

Also Read: Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis react to t??he appointment of Rajat Patidar as RCB’s new captain for IPL 2025

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The announcement of Rajat Patidar as the new captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season has sparked a whirlwind of reactions from fans and cricket pundits alike. While some have welcomed the decision, others have expressed skepticism, with former CSK star leading the charge of critics. As the cricketing world debates the merits of this decision, one thing is clear: the ‘RaPa’ era has begun, and it promises to be anything but dull.

Expectation vs Reality: A subtle jab from CSK legend

Former CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath took to social media to express his thoughts on RCB’s decision, posting a simple yet pointed �?em>Expectation vs Reality�?tweet. While the post did not explicitly name Rajat Patidar in a negative connotation, the timing and context left little to the imagination. Badrinath’s?? dig has added fuel to the ongoing debate about whether Patidar is the right choice to lead a franchise? as high-profile as RCB. Critics argue that Patidar lacks the experience of leading an IPL team, while supporters point to his impressive domestic record as evidence of his leadership potential.

Expectation : Virat
Reality : Patidar

What are your thoughts #RCB fans ? #IPL2025

— S.Badrinath (@s_badrinath) February 13, 2025

A glimpse into Rajat Patidar’s leadership credentials

Patidar is no stranger to leadership roles. The 31-year-old has previously captained Madhya Pradesh in both the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Under his leadership, Madhya Pradesh reached the final of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last year, where they narrowly lost to  Mumbai by five wickets. Patidar’s individual performance in the tournament was nothing short of stellar. He finished as the second-highest run-scorer, amassing 428 runs from ??10 matches at an average of 61 and a strike rate of 186.08. These numbers not only highlight his batting prowess but also his ability to perform u??nder pressure—a trait that will be crucial in his new role as RCB captain.

Also READ: 3 reasons why Royal?? Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) can win IPL 2025 under Rajat Patidar’s captaincy

Fan reactions: Divided yet hopeful

The RCB fanbase, known for its passionate and vocal support, has been split in its reaction to Patidar’s appointment. While some fans have expressed concerns about his lack of IPL captaincy experience, others have embraced the decision, hailing it as the start of the ‘RaPa’ era. Social media has been abuzz with hashtags like #RaPaEra and #PatidarForCaptain, as fans rally behind their new leader. Many believe that Patidar’s calm demeanour and proven track record in domestic cricket make him the ideal candidate to lead RCB to their elusive first IPL title.

“RaPa�?is our new Captain RCBians ❤️‍�?/p>

New era begins 🔥✌️#Rcbcaptain #RajatPatidar #rcb #ViratKohli #VD12 #VD12Teaser #VijayDevarakonda #KingdomTeaser pic.twitter.com/rLscTIYJTB

— Mahi Maharaaj (@SaiVenkat113) February 13, 2025

Chahe 100 Captains badlo RCB walo par at the end rehna Trophyless hi hai🙂#RajatPatidar #ViratKohli #Rcbcaptain #IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/6PmMGAUnXv

— Shreyash 🇮🇳 (@Shreyash0417) February 13, 2025

Patidar’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for RCB. The franchise has long been criticized for its inability to convert potential into trophies, and the pressure to deliver will be immense. However, Patidar’s leadership style, characterized by his ability to lead from the front and inspire his teammat??es, could be the catalyst RCB needs to turn their fortunes around. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Patidar to see if he can rise to the occasion and silence his critics.

Also READ: IPL 2025:?? Why Rajat Patidar was chosen as RCB Captain? Andy Flower highlights 3 key qualities

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Rajasthan Royals (RR) have appointed former India all-rounder Sairaj Bahutule as their spin bowling coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season.

Rajasthan Royals names a new spin bowling coach for the IPL 2025

Sairaj returns to the franchise after previously serving in the role between 2018 and 2021. Known for his vast experience in domestic and international cricket, the brings a wealth of knowledge to the Royals�?setup as they aim to end their long-standing trophy drought. Bahutule said it’s a great honor to rejoin Royals. The franchise’s dedication to nurturing talent and playing an exciting brand of cricket aligns with my coaching philosophy

“Joining Rajasthan Royals again is a tremendous honor. The franchise’s commitment to nurturing talent and playing an exciting brand of cricket resonates with my own coaching philosophy. I am eager to work alongside Rahul and the rest of the coaching staff to develop our bowling attack and contribute to the team’s success. Together, we aim to achieve great milestones in the forthcoming season,” Bahutule said in a statemen?t released by the Rajasthan Royals.

A stalwart of Indian domestic cricket

Bahutule has had an illustrious domestic career, having taken over 630 wickets and scored more than 6??,000 runs in first-class cricket. Though his international appearances were limited to two Tests and eight ODIs, his contributions to Mumbai’s dominance in the Ranji Trophy made him one of the most respected names in Indian cricket. After retiring as a player, Bahutule smoothly transitioned into coaching and has mentored teams like Mumbai, Bengal, Kerala, and the Indian national team. His deep understanding of spin bowling is expected to be a valuable asset for Rajasthan Royals, especially in assisting young spinners.

Also READ: IPL 2025: Why Rajat Patidar was chosen as RCB Captain? Andy Flower highlights 3?? key q?ualities

Working under Rahul Dravid and strengthening RR’s coaching staff

With Bahutule’s appointment, Royals have further bolstered their coaching staff ahead of IPL 2025. He will work under head coach Rahul Dravid, who himself has returned to the franchise after his tenure as India’s head coach. The Royals have also recently onboarded Vikram Rathour? as their batting coach, indicating a significant revamp in their backroom staff.

The presence of experienced figures like Dravid, Rathour, and Bahutule is expected to enhance the Royals’ strategic approach, particularly in helping the squad maintain consistency across the long IPL season. With spin playing a crucial role in IPL matches, Bahutule’s guidance will be instrumental in refining the team’s bowling attack.

“Sairaj’s deep understanding of spin bowling and his extensive coaching experience make him an invaluable addition to our team. His proven ability to mentor young bowlers aligns perfectly with our vision at Rajasthan Royals. Having worked with him before, I am confident that his insights and guidance will significantly benefit our players as we strive for excellence in the upcoming season,” Dravid said.

Rajasthan Royals eyeing a second IPL title after 17 years

Despite being the inaugural IPL champions in 2008, the Royals have fa??iled to win the title in the last 17 seasons. While they have come close on several occasions, including finishing as runners-up in IPL 2022, inconsistency has often plagued their performances in crucial stages of the tournament.

Ahead of the IPL 2025 season, the franchise is making significant moves both in terms ??of squad building and coaching appointments. With Bahutule back in the mix, the team will be looking to improve their? spin bowling department, a crucial aspect in their bid to claim a long-awaited second IPL title.

As Royals gear up for the upcoming season, their focus on assembling a strong coaching unit reflects their ambition to return to championship-winning ways. With Bahutule’s expertise and the leadership of Dra?vid and Rathour, the franchise hopes to find the right balance between experience and youthful energy, ultimately aiming to lift the IPL 2025 trophy.

Also READ: 3 reasons why Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) can win IPL 2025 under R?ajat Patida??r��s captaincy

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