Cricket fans, get ready to dive into the inspiring journey of Rajat Patidar, a name that has become synonymous with grit, determination, and explosive batting. From his humble beginnings in Indore to becoming the captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2025, Patidar’s story is nothing short of a fairytale. Let’s explore his life, career, and the moments that made him a household name.
Early Life and Family Background
Rajat Patidar was born on June 1, 1993, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Hailing from a business family, his father, Manohar Patidar, runs an agricultural pumps trading business. Initially, Rajat’s family wanted him to focus on academics and join the family business, but his passion for cricket was unstoppable. He started playing cricket at the age of 9 and trained at local academies in Indore. His dedication paid off when he made his domestic debut for Madhya Pradesh in 201526.
Rajat is married to Gunjan Patidar, and the couple tied the knot on July 7, 2022. Interestingly, Rajat postponed his wedding to play in the IPL 2022 season, a decision that eventually led to one of the most memorable moments of his career.
Cricket Career: From Domestic Cricket to International Debut
Rajat’s cricketing journey began in domestic cricket, where he quickly made a mark. He made his First-Class debut in 2015 and scored a century in his very first match. His consistent performances in domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy earned him recognition610.
In December 2023, Rajat made his ODI debut against South Africa, scoring 22 runs. He followed this up with his Test debut in February 2024 against England. Although his international career is still in its early stages, his domestic and IPL performances have made him a strong contender for future opportunities.
IPL Journey: From Replacement Player to RCB Captain
Rajat Patidar’s IPL journey is a story of resilience and redemption. He was first picked by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2021 for a base price of ₹20 lakh. However, he got limited opportunities and was released after the season. In 2022, he returned as a replacement player and made history by scoring an unbeaten 112 runs in the Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants. This knock not only sealed his place in RCB but also made him the first uncapped player to score a century in an IPL playoff match1310.
Despite missing the 2023 season due to an Achilles injury, Rajat bounced back strongly in 2024, scoring 395 runs at a strike rate of 178. His consistent performances earned him a retention for ₹11 crore ahead of IPL 2025. In a remarkable turn of events, Rajat was appointed as the captain of RCB for the 2025 season, becoming the eighth player to lead the franchise.
Personal Life and Hobbies
Off the field, Rajat is a quiet and grounded individual. He loves traveling, playing golf, and cycling. He is also a dog lover and has two pet dogs. Rajat’s tattoos, including a lion and geometric designs, reflect his personality—strong, determined, and artistic.
Key Achievements and Records
- First uncapped player to score a century in an IPL playoff match (112* vs LSG in 2022).
- Retained by RCB for ₹11 crore in IPL 2025 and appointed as captain.
- Led Madhya Pradesh to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final in 2024, scoring 428 runs in the tournament
What Makes Rajat Patidar Special?
Rajat’s journey from being a replacement player to leading one of the most popular IPL teams is a testament to his hard work and determination. His calm demeanor, leadership skills, and ability to perform under pressure make him a role model for aspiring cricketers. As he steps into his new role as RCB captain, fans are excited to see how he will steer the team towards its first IPL title.
Conclusion
Rajat Patidar’s story is a perfect blend of talent, perseverance, and passion. Whether it’s his explosive batting, his leadership skills, or his humble personality, Rajat has won the hearts of cricket fans worldwide. As IPL 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on this rising star, and we can’t wait to see what he achieves next!
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