Ranks the top 5 captains in RCB’s history, revealing a surprising placement for their greatest icon, Virat Kohli
1) Anil Kumble: The Underrated RCB Leader
Anil Kumble is one of the most underrated IPL captains. He transformed a struggling RCB into a competitive team. In 2008, under Rahul Dravid’s leadership, the team finished second-last. But in 2009, Kumble’s calm, strong leadership helped RCB reach the finals. They lost to the Deccan Chargers.
Kumble led RCB in 35 matches, winning 19 and losing 16, with a win percentage of 54.28. His leadership style brought stability and confidence to a broken squad.
2) Faf du Plessis: RCB’s Modern-Day Tactician
Taking over after Virat Kohli’s captaincy stint, Faf du Plessis became a breath of fresh air for RCB. His leadership revitalized the team’s morale, and he led them to two playoffs in three seasons.
What set Faf apart was his ability to lead by example. He remained one of the team’s top run-scorers during his tenure. In 42 matches as captain, Faf won 21 games and lost 21, achieving a 50% win rate.
3) Virat Kohli: The Heartbeat of RCB
RCB’s most iconic player, Virat Kohli, has the most wins as captain. But, he ranks third due to the team’s poor performance under his leadership. Kohli captained RCB from 2013 to 2019, leading them to the finals only once, in 2016.
Under his captaincy, RCB won 66 out of 143 matches, with a win percentage of 46.15. Kohli’s passion for RCB is clear. But, his IPL title-less record tarnishes his captaincy legacy.
4) Daniel Vettori: Building RCB’s Foundation
The Kiwi legend Daniel Vettori succeeded Kumble and brought stability to the team. He led RCB to the finals in 2011, only to fall short of clinching the title. Vettori’s calm demeanor and experience helped lay a solid foundation for the team.
In his captaincy stint, Vettori led RCB in 28 matches, winning 15 and losing 13, with a win percentage of 53.57.
5) Shane Watson: A Forgettable Stint
In 2017, Shane Watson briefly captained the team when Kohli was injured. Unfortunately, his leadership stint was short and unimpressive. Watson led RCB in just three matches, winning one and losing two, with a win percentage of 33.33.
6) Kevin Pietersen: A Short and Unsuccessful Reign
After Dravid’s resignation, RCB appointed Kevin Pietersen as captain. He failed to make an impact. In six matches, Pietersen managed only two wins, with a win percentage of 33.33. His tenure as captain remains one of the least memorable in RCB history.
7) Rahul Dravid: The Tough Start for RCB
Rahul Dravid, RCB’s first-ever captain, had a rough start in the inaugural IPL season in 2008. The team struggled to find its rhythm, finishing with just four wins in 14 matches. Dravid’s win percentage of 28.57 reflects the early struggles of the franchise.
RCB has had some brilliant captains. But, they have never won an IPL title. This failure is a dark spot in their legacy. Anil Kumble and Faf du Plessis are the best leaders. Virat Kohli is known for his passion and longevity. His success as captain, though, was limited.