Faf du Plessis reveals how a text message from Virat Kohli convinced him to lead RCB

Faf du Plessis accepted the captaincy role at Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of the 2022 Indian Premier League season after receiving a reassuring text message from Virat Kohli. The franchise had long been tied to Kohli, who led the team from 2013 until giving up the role to manage his workload and focus on his batting. RCB director of cricket Mike Hesson approached du Plessis during the auction to gauge his interest in leading the squad. Du Plessis noted that losing even a single match often prompted fans in Bangalore and across India to call for Kohli to return as captain, driven by loyalty rather than dislike for the current leader. Despite the heavy external pressure, he welcomed the high expectations. He praised Kohli for constantly backing him throughout his three years in charge, noting that their professional bond eventually blossomed into a close friendship.

Context

Leadership transitions in high-profile sports franchises often carry immense scrutiny from passionate fan bases. In elite Twenty20 cricket leagues like the Indian Premier League, the public backing of a former long-term captain can play a vital role in helping a successor settle into the team.