As the IPL 2025 resumes on May 17, cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium. With Bengaluru securing victories in 8 of their 11 matches, they currently stand second in the points table, demonstrating a significant improvement in their team balance compared to previous seasons.
Mohammad Kaif, a former RCB and Indian cricketer, has expressed his belief that RCB possesses the potential to clinch the title this year, thanks to their more cohesive team dynamics. In an interview with The Times of India, Kaif particularly commended captain Rajat Patidar for his exceptional leadership skills. Patidar has been instrumental in leveraging his bowlers effectively, a strategy that has helped RCB restrict opponents and defend totals successfully.
Kaif noted, “RCB have transformed into a formidable team. Historically, they’ve relied heavily on their batting prowess, but Rajat Patidar has excelled in utilizing his bowling arsenal, allowing them to maintain control over matches.” He further highlighted Virat Kohli’s consistent batting performances as a key factor, alongside the bowlers’ contributions, which have instilled confidence in the team that they can emerge victorious in this tournament.
RCB has long been a crowd favorite in the IPL, boasting some of cricket’s most illustrious names. Despite reaching the finals thrice—in 2009, 2011, and 2016—they have yet to secure the coveted championship. With nine playoff appearances, they are among the teams with the third-highest records for reaching the final four, trailing behind Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, who have achieved such feats 12 and 10 times, respectively.
As IPL 2025 progresses, RCB’s fans are hopeful that the strategic leadership of Rajat Patidar, coupled with the stellar performances from Kohli and the bowling unit, will finally lead the franchise to its first IPL title. This promising blend of talent and strategy could be the turning point for RCB in their pursuit of glory.
