Royal Challengers captain Rajat Patidar has spoken about what Virat Kohli’s support has meant to him. He described Kohli as an idol he has followed closely throughout his career, studying everything from his batting and on-field approach to his off-field routines.
Patidar said hearing that Kohli had strongly backed his appointment as captain meant a lot. Knowing his idol believed in his ability to lead, he said, gave him all the support he needed.
Results back him up
His form has strengthened the case for his leadership. In IPL 2026 he scored 501 runs at a strike rate of 192.69, playing an aggressive middle-order role.
For Patidar, Kohli’s backing has been more than encouragement. It has been a source of confidence throughout his rise as a young IPL captain.
