IPL 2025: 31-year-old middle order batter Rajat Patidar is set to lead the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The announcement was made by the franchise on Thursday (February 13) at an event at the KSCA. Rajat who had a modest debut in IPL 2021, scoring just 71 runs in four matches made a significant impact after rejoining the franchise in 2022 as a replacement for the injured Luvnith Sisodia, securing a contract of Rs 20 lakh.
That season proved to be a breakthrough for Patidar, as he amassed 333 runs, including an unbeaten 112. His standout performance came in the Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Rajat Patidar’s rise from domestic cricket to the Indian Premier League (IPL) and eventually the international stage is a story of perseverance, skill, and seizing opportunities.
A look at Patidar's journey with RCB
Patidar made his IPL debut in 2021 and has been a key part of the franchise ever since. Known for his ability to excel against both pace and spin, he has played 27 matches for RCB, amassing 799 runs at an impressive strike rate of 158.85. Ahead of the mega auctions, he was one of the three players retained by RCB alongside Virat Kohli and Yash Dayal, securing a contract worth Rs 11 crore.
2021 2025. Its been quite a journey for our Captain Rajat Patidar. #RaPa https://t.co/iehGmytpzk
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) February 13, 2025
Rajat Patidar's domestic career
Born on June 1, 1993, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, he has made a name for himself with consistent performances in domestic cricket and impactful displays in the IPL, leading to his selection for the Indian national team.
Representing Madhya Pradesh, Patidar debuted in the 2015 season and soon became a key player for his state. His batting combines aggression with technical proficiency, making him a formidable presence in the Ranji Trophy. Averaging over 55.50 with an impressive strike rate, his performances stood out, signaling his readiness for the next level.
In the recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he scored 428 from 10 matches. His average of 61 impressed with a staggering strike-rate of 186.08. He finished as the second-highest run-getter of the tournament.
Other IPL teams Rajat has played for
Rajat Patidar has not played for any other IPL franchise. He made his debut in the 2021 IPL season for RCB.
Rajat in India colors
Retained by Bengaluru for the 2023 season, Patidar continued to shine, ultimately securing a spot in India's ODI squad for the series against South Africa and New Zealand. He has played 3 Tests and 1 ODI for the Men in Blue so far in his career.
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