Virat Kohli Returns as RCB Captain After 2021 Exit

Virat Kohli is set to make a dramatic return as the captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for the 2025 IPL season. Kohli had stepped down from the role after the 2021 season, having led the team for nearly a decade without clinching the elusive IPL title. His departure allowed South African cricketer Faf du Plessis to take over the reins from 2022 to 2024. However, with the upcoming 2025 mega auction, RCB has decided to reappoint Kohli as captain, believing that his leadership experience and deep connection to the team will help guide them to their first IPL title​

Why Kohli Stepped Away in 2021

Kohli originally stepped down from the captaincy in 2021 to focus more on his personal performance and manage his workload. At the same time, he also stepped down from India's T20I captaincy. While his tenure as RCB’s captain from 2013 to 2021 was marked by significant achievements, including multiple playoff appearances, the team was unable to secure an IPL trophy. Despite stepping down from the captaincy, Kohli remained a key figure for the franchise, consistently performing as one of the top players in the league​.

Faf du Plessis’ Role and Uncertain Future

Faf du Plessis took over as RCB captain in 2022 and led the team until the 2024 season. However, du Plessis is now 40 years old, and questions about his future with the franchise have surfaced. Although he brought experience and stability to the team, RCB is reportedly considering a leadership change as part of their broader strategy to rebuild for the future. Du Plessis’ potential departure, or shift in role, is likely tied to the reappointment of Kohli​.

The Shubman Gill Connection

Before finalizing Kohli’s return as captain, there were rumors that RCB was considering Shubman Gill for the leadership position. However, Gill, who currently plays for Gujarat Titans, chose to remain with his current team, closing the door on a potential captaincy role with RCB. As a result, the franchise decided to reinstate Kohli, who has an established record and rapport with the team​.

Kohli's Legacy at RCB