The annals of IPL are filled with unfortunate incidents when established order is changed and a new captain is foisted on a team. We saw that with even established biggies like MI and CSK, and relative newcomers like GT in the past.

So when the Bengaluru franchise, which has so far not been able to win the coveted trophy even once, picked out of the left field Rajat Patidar as the captain for the 2025 season there were understandably a lot of misgivings. But with Virat Kohli having given up on captaincy and no other senior (Indian or overseas player) with longstanding potential, the choice of Patidar was, in a sense,  forced on RCB management.

But four matches into the season, Patidar seems to have done enough, both with his leadership as well as with his bat, to shut down the sceptics, of which there were many.  

As the captain of RCB, Patidar has led from the front, showcasing his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed. His performances have been pivotal in setting up competitive totals and chasing targets effectively.

The show against Mumbai Indians last night is a strong case in point. Patidar scored a blistering 64 off 32 balls, including 5 fours and 4 sixes, as he played a crucial role in RCB's total of 221/5 at the Wankhede Stadium. His partnership with Virat Kohli and Jitesh Sharma was instrumental in maintaining the scoring momentum, and eventually the visitors won by 12 runs ---- its first win after six consecutive losses at the Wankhede.

Overall, Patidar has accumulated 161 runs in four innings this season, with a strike rate of 175. He has registered two half-centuries, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.

Patidar's aggressive batting and leadership have been central to RCB's strategy. His ability to adapt to different match situations and guide the team has earned him accolades, including the Player of the Match award against Mumbai Indians. His bowling changes and field placements have also been spot-on.

More than anything else, he has not allowed himself to be awed by his new responsibility. If anything, the captaincy seems to have liberated him, as he has been able to express himself freely with the bat. Under him even potentially tough players to manage Krunal Pandya are performing ably.

Last night's match is exactly the kind that RCB in the past would have choked in the death overs and lost. But yesterday it held its nerve, because the captain did not betray any.

RCB took a punt with Patidar's captaincy. But in four matches, he is showing that it could be an inspired choice, one that could change the fortunes of the team for better.