Jitesh Sharma reveals Virat Kohli declined RCB captaincy offer
What's the story
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma has revealed that Virat Kohli wasn't keen on leading the team for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2025.
Notably, RCB had released Faf du Plessis ahead of the mega-auction, leaving a leadership void.
The responsibility was eventually handed over to Rajat Patidar, who has been with the franchise since 2021.
Confirmation
Jitesh confirms Virat's disinterest in captaincy
Speaking on the CricXtasy podcast, Jitesh confirmed that he learned about Rajat Patidar's captaincy when everyone else did.
He implied Kohli's disinterest in captaining the side was apparent to those who knew the sport.
However, Jitesh later clarified his statement saying he doesn't know why Kohli declined the role and is not part of management decisions.
"Virat bhai did not want to captain the side," Jitesh Sharma said on the podcast.
Team dynamics
Jitesh's role in RCB and support for Patidar
Jitesh was picked by RCB for a whopping ₹11 crore. He was keen to help Patidar with on-field decisions.
"I would definitely help him with the captaincy," Jitesh said, adding that Patidar deserves this opportunity because of his long service to RCB.
The franchise has changed a lot after releasing Du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, and Mohammed Siraj.
Leadership shift
Kohli's absence from captaincy role
Notably, Kohli stepped down as RCB captain after IPL 2021, having led the team for more than eight years before stepping down.
Following du Plessis's release, speculations were rife about Kohli's return as captain. However, Jitesh's comments indicate that this won't be the case in IPL 2025.
Notably, Kohli has led RCB in a few games since 2022 when du Plessis was unavailable.
Team transformation
RCB's new leadership and team overhaul
With Patidar now at the helm, RCB have completely revamped their squad. The team has a new bowling attack and a fresh middle order this season.
Team director Mo Bobat confirmed Kohli was considered for captaincy before Patidar was chosen.
Bobat praised Kohli's maturity during discussions about the captaincy role, but the final decision favored Patidar as the new leader of RCB.