"A brand new start for me in a new franchise" - RCB captain Faf du Plessis ahead of IPL 2022

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Faf du Plessis is all geared up for IPL 2022, scheduled to commence on March 26.

The former Proteas captain was appointed as Bangalore captain on Saturday amid the presence of the fans. The franchise acquired Du Plessis at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month for a whopping ₹7 crore.

The 37-year-old cricketer, who shifted his base from Chennai Super Kings to Bangalore, stated that he is all set to embark on a new challenge. Speaking on a video shared on RCB's social media handles, Du Plessis stated:

"Very excited. The IPL is on top of everyone's calendar and we try and get ready for this competition every year. So excited at levels, obviously the IPL is starting and it's a brand new start for me in a new franchise and a new challenge, one that I'm excited for."

Du Plessis amassed 631 runs in IPL 2021 and finished two runs short of Purple Cap winner and his former teammate Ruturaj Gaikwad. He played an integral part in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lifting their fourth IPL title.

The veteran will hope to replicate the same effort in RCB colors as the franchise eye their maiden trophy in the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, du Plessis, who received immense love from CSK fans, will now be at the heart of RCB supporters. They are known to have one of the most loyal fanbases in the IPL. The top-order batsman is excited to see the fans back in the stadium.

He added:

"First of all, thanks for all the love. Yeah, it is extremely great to see so many fans out there. We haven't seen a lot of fans and the last few years have been in bubble so very excited to see them. Hopefully, we can bring cricket back to the stadiumthe fans very soon."

Du Plessis brings a lot of experience to the table. He will hope to give some joy back to the fans who have supported the side irrespective of the results.

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"They are the most loyal fans a cricket team can expect" - Harshal Patel on RCB supporters

Harshal Patel, the 31-year-old cricketer, who won the Purple Cap last season, was reacquired by the franchise at the auction for ₹10.75 crore.

Speaking about the fans, Patel asserted that they are the most loyal fans in the country. He said:

"They are the most loyal fans a cricket team can expect and we are very grateful to have these people around us and backing us. When we lose or draw, they are always behind us so very grateful to have these fans and hopefully we can give them a good show."

The Royal Challengers will begin their campaign against Punjab Kings on March 27 at the DY Patil Stadium.