Rajat Patidar Reveals Virat Kohli Inspiration and Leadership Philosophy
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A Rising Leader in the RCB Dugout
The IPL 2026 season has been nothing short of spectacular for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). As the defending champions, the franchise became the first to secure a spot in the playoffs, a testament to the team’s grit and the tactical acumen of their captain, Rajat Patidar. While the headlines often focus on the explosive strike rates and match-winning knocks, there is a deeper narrative brewing behind the scenes—a story of mentorship, respect, and the evolution of a new leader.
The Kohli Connection: An Undying Idol
Amidst the high-pressure environment of the IPL, Rajat Patidar has remained grounded, consistently highlighting the monumental impact of Virat Kohli on his career. In a recent interaction, Patidar made it clear that Kohli remains his biggest idol in the sport. When asked about his thoughts on the former RCB skipper, Patidar’s admiration was palpable.
“I like his energy. There is nothing I don’t like. He’s my idol,” Patidar shared ahead of the crucial clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad. This statement underscores the profound respect held within the RCB dressing room for the legendary Indian batter, whose intensity and passion continue to serve as the heartbeat of the franchise.
Defining a New Style of Leadership
Taking the reins of a franchise previously led by icons like Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, and Virat Kohli is no small feat. However, Patidar is not interested in being a carbon copy of his predecessors. Instead, he is focused on forging his own identity as a leader.
He credits much of his current captaincy mindset to Faf du Plessis, whose tenure as RCB captain left a lasting impression. Patidar noted that the most significant lesson he learned from the former South African skipper was the importance of human management. “It was crucial not to copy any of the predecessors. But there was one thing I was very influenced by from du Plessis: how he spoke to and gave importance to each player. He was confident; his body language conveyed authority on the ground.”
Preparation and Tactical Depth
Beyond the motivational aspects of captaincy, Patidar has emphasized the technical preparation required to excel at the highest level. He credits his former Madhya Pradesh coach, Chandrakant Pandit, for instilling a sense of meticulousness in his game. According to Patidar, Pandit’s decades of experience as a player and coach provided a masterclass in how to study the game.
“Chandu sir taught me how meticulously you can prepare for a cricket game and how deeply you can study it,” Patidar explained. “His tactical strength was eye-opening for me.” These lessons have clearly paid off, with Patidar amassing 337 runs at an average of 33.70 and an explosive strike rate of nearly 193 in the ongoing season.
Facing the Best in the Business
Patidar’s success this season has not come easy, as he continues to face some of the world’s most dangerous bowlers. When asked about the toughest challenges he has faced at the crease, the RCB skipper did not hesitate. He identified India’s premier pacer, Jasprit Bumrah, and West Indies’ mystery spinner, Sunil Narine, as the most formidable opponents he has encountered.
Looking Ahead
As the RCB campaign progresses toward the business end of IPL 2026, all eyes will be on Patidar to see if he can lead the side to back-to-back titles. By blending the infectious energy of Kohli, the inclusivity of du Plessis, and the tactical discipline of Pandit, Patidar is proving that he is more than just a batter—he is a leader capable of carrying a legacy into the future.
