The high-voltage clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Match 65 of IPL 2025 at Lucknow’s Ekana Stadium saw an unexpected twist before the first ball was bowled. As fans waited to see Rajat Patidar walk out for the toss, they were left surprised when wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma stepped into the spotlight as RCB’s captain for the day.
A debut in red: Jitesh Sharma dons captain’s hat for RCB
In a surprising move, Jitesh was entrusted with the leadership duties for RCB, marking his first time captaining the Bengaluru franchise. Although he didn’t clarify why Patidar wasn’t leading, he hinted at team strategy by revealing that Patidar would feature as an Impact Player. Jitesh’s appointment marks him as the ninth captain in RCB’s history, joining a list that includes cricketing stalwarts like Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, and Virat Kohli.
Winning the toss, Jitesh chose to bowl first, citing the moisture in the pitch as a key factor. Speaking confidently at the toss, he expressed his ambition to guide RCB to a top-table finish and push for the title.
“It’s my first time captaining RCB. I did captain PBKS against SRH last year. The management has been fantastic, creating a positive environment. We want to win every game and lift the cup,” Jitesh remarked.
He also confirmed a strategic swap in the playing XI, with Mayank replacing Devdutt Padikkal, while Patidar was designated as the Impact Player.
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Jitesh joins elite company
With this appearance, Jitesh becomes the ninth cricketer to lead Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL. Here’s a look at all RCB captains through the years:
- Rahul Dravid
- Kevin Pietersen
- Anil Kumble
- Daniel Vettori
- Virat Kohli
- Shane Watson
- Faf du Plessis
- Rajat Patidar
- Jitesh Sharma
This leadership change adds another intriguing chapter to RCB’s already eventful campaign in IPL 2025.
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