Virat Kohli has been synonymous with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) since the Indian Premier League’s inception in 2008, emerging as a stalwart both for the franchise and the league itself. After stepping down from captaincy ahead of IPL 2022 to manage his workload, Kohli might be preparing for a grand return as leader, as recent reports suggest his readiness to step back into the role for the 2025 season. With an unwavering fanbase and unfulfilled title dreams, Kohli's potential comeback as captain is igniting excitement and anticipation across the cricketing world.

Will Kohli's return as captain end RCB’s title drought?

According to a report by ESPNcricinfo, Virat Kohli’s return to captaincy could be the strategic change RCB need to end their IPL trophy drought. The Delhi-born cricketing legend, who first took on the mantle of RCB’s full-time captaincy in 2013, is widely regarded for his passionate leadership style and his unparalleled devotion to the team. Although he stepped down from the role in 2022 to prioritize his workload, three seasons later, Kohli is reportedly open to reassuming the captaincy in hopes of leading RCB to their long-awaited IPL title.

This rumored leadership shift comes at a crucial time as RCB head into the mega auction, potentially setting the stage for a team refresh aimed at finally securing the elusive championship. The decision is being widely praised by RCB’s faithful, who have remained hopeful of seeing Kohli lift the IPL trophy in an RCB jersey.

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A comeback to captaining responsibilities after three-year gap

Kohli’s tenure as RCB’s captain saw him reach several personal and team milestone. Known for his tenacious approach, he captained the team for eight years, delivering memorable performances and creating lasting moments on the field, including the record-breaking 2016 season where he scored 973 runs. Stepping down ahead of the 2022 season, Kohli handed the reins over to manage the demands of his international and league commitments.

However, as the IPL 2025 season draws closer, sources indicate that Kohli could once again don the captain’s hat. With RCB's focus still on claiming their first IPL trophy, fans hope that a familiar leader with unmatched experience in both international and league cricket could be the catalyst the franchise needs.