Wed Feb 12 07:04:53 UTC 2025: ## Kohli to Captain RCB in IPL 2025, Hints Former Indian Cricketer Raina
**Bengaluru, February 11, 2025** – Speculation surrounding the captaincy of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for the upcoming IPL 2025 season has been fueled by a recent comment from former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina. During commentary of an England vs. India ODI match, Raina hinted strongly that Virat Kohli will reclaim the captaincy.
Raina observed an interaction between Kohli and an England player at the field, interpreting it as the England player attempting to subtly inquire about RCB’s captaincy plans. Given his close relationship with Kohli, Raina publicly declared that Kohli will lead RCB in IPL 2025.
This would mark Kohli’s return to the captaincy role after stepping down in 2021. He previously led RCB for nine years, commanding the team in 143 matches, winning 66. Under his leadership, RCB reached the IPL final in 2016 and qualified for the playoffs three times. Raina’s assertion suggests that RCB’s franchise is highly likely to reinstate Kohli as captain.