Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has finalized their 22-member squad for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 following a two-day auction. However, the franchise has yet to announce its captain, fueling speculation over the leadership role.
Virat Kohli, who led RCB from 2013 to 2021, is emerging as the leading candidate for the role. Former RCB legend AB de Villiers, in a statement on his YouTube channel, hinted that Kohli is likely to take the reins once again. “I don’t think it has been confirmed yet, but he will be the captain, I think, looking at the squad,” de Villiers said. Kohli’s captaincy record includes leading RCB to their last IPL final in 2016, though the team has yet to secure a title.
Other Potential Contenders
Bhuvneshwar Kumar: The veteran pacer, who was among RCB’s notable auction picks, has limited captaincy experience in the IPL, serving only as an interim skipper for Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Krunal Pandya: The Baroda captain and RCB recruit has shown leadership qualities in domestic cricket but lacks IPL captaincy experience.
The auction saw RCB bolster their lineup with experienced Indian and overseas players, aiming to strike a balance between youth and experience. While the squad appears competitive, the captaincy decision will play a key role in shaping their campaign for the elusive IPL title.
