The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have been one of the most high-profile and widely followed franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since their inception in 2008. Despite assembling some of the biggest names in cricket, including Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers, an IPL title has remained elusive. Over the years, RCB has displayed both brilliance and inconsistency, reaching the finals three times—in 2009, 2011, and 2016—only to fall short each time.
In recent years, RCB has shown signs of revival. They finished third in 2022, with Faf du Plessis leading the batting charts with 468 runs and Wanindu Hasaranga impressing with 26 wickets. However, the 2023 season saw a dip, as they ended in sixth place despite du Plessis scoring 730 runs and Mohammed Siraj taking 19 wickets. The 2024 season brought renewed hope, with RCB making a playoff comeback, finishing fourth. Virat Kohli was in sensational form, amassing 741 runs, while Yash Dayal emerged as their leading wicket-taker with 15 scalps.
Retentions:
Ahead of the 2025 season, RCB retained a core group of players, aiming to build stability and continuity:
1. Virat Kohli (Retention: ₹21 crores)
The undisputed face of RCB since its inception, Virat Kohli’s loyalty and performances have been nothing short of extraordinary. Ahead of the 2024 season, his strike rate faced heavy scrutiny, but Kohli silenced his critics in emphatic fashion, amassing 741 runs at an outstanding average of 61.75 and a blistering strike rate of 154.70. His consistency and class shone through as he clinched yet another Orange Cap. Later that year, he played a pivotal role in India’s triumphant T20 World Cup campaign, scoring a match-winning 76 in the final against South Africa—an innings that earned him the Player of the Match award and secured India’s second-ever T20 World Cup title. Now, with RCB fans eagerly awaiting their maiden trophy, Kohli’s hunger, experience, and relentless determination will once again be crucial in the franchise’s pursuit of glory.
2. Rajat Patidar (₹11 crores)
Rajat Patidar has been one of the most promising batters in the IPL in recent years. In a surprising move, he has been named the captain of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for IPL 2025, replacing Faf du Plessis, who has joined Delhi Capitals. Since joining RCB in 2021, Patidar has been a key player, scoring 799 runs in 28 matches at a strong strike rate of 158.85, making him the team’s second-highest run-scorer after Virat Kohli. His leadership skills were on display in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he led Madhya Pradesh to the final and scored 428 runs in nine innings at a remarkable strike rate of 186.08. Leading RCB, one of the most popular teams in the IPL, will be a big challenge, but if he succeeds, he could become one of Indian cricket’s next stars.
3. Yash Dayal (₹5 crores)
Yash Dayal had a respectable outing last season, finishing as his team’s leading wicket-taker with 15 scalps in 14 matches. His retention over Mohammed Siraj, the team’s spearhead, came as a surprise to many fans. While 15 wickets might not seem extraordinary, his performances were commendable, especially considering the challenges of bowling at the Chinnaswamy Stadium—renowned for its short boundaries and high-scoring nature, often termed a graveyard for bowlers. The numbers don’t entirely reflect his impact with the ball. This season, he will have a crucial role in complementing Josh Hazlewood and providing stability to the bowling attack.
Auction Picks:
The 2025 auction was pivotal for RCB as they sought to address previous shortcomings and bolster their squad depth:
1. Phil Salt (₹11.50 crore)
When RCB chose Phil Salt and did not use the Right to Match (RTM) card for Will Jacks, many were surprised. However, this could be a smart move. The explosive Phil Salt, currently the No. 3 ranked T20 batsman in the world, has rightfully earned his place in one of the biggest franchises. After a stellar season with KKR last year, where he scored 435 runs at an average of 39.55 and a remarkable strike rate of 182.01, he will aim to replicate his success with RCB, providing quick starts at the top of the order.
Why did RCB not retain Will Jacks?
The decision could be strategic. Salt and Jacks have a similar playing style, both being aggressive batters. However, RCB likely prioritized a player who could also serve as a wicketkeeper. If they had retained Jacks, they wouldn’t have been able to go for Liam Livingstone. Since they acquired Livingstone—who also brings all-rounder abilities similar to Jacks—they opted for Salt as their primary wicketkeeper, with Jitesh Sharma as the backup. This move allows them to balance the squad while maintaining their aggressive batting approach.
2. Jitesh Sharma (₹11 crore)
Jitesh Sharma, a wicketkeeper-batsman from Vidarbha, has shown promise but has yet to fully justify his potential. Although he is considered as one of the most talented players in the circuit, his performances have been inconsistent. In his 40 IPL matches so far, he has scored 730 runs at an average of 22.81, but his impressive strike rate of 151.14 highlights his aggressive style. He had a good IPL 2023 season, playing a few outstanding knocks that earned him a call-up to the Indian national team. However, in 9 matches for India, he managed only 100 runs in 7 innings at an average of 14.29. Despite his modest international numbers, Jitesh remains a player to watch. RCB secured him for a massive ₹11 crore to replace their legendary finisher, Dinesh Karthik, who recently retired. Stepping into DK’s shoes will be a huge challenge, but Jitesh has the opportunity to prove himself and win the trust of RCB’s management and fans.
3. Josh Hazlewood (₹12.50 crore)
Josh Hazlewood is returning to his former franchise as he makes his comeback to the field after nearly three months. He missed the Champions Trophy due to injury but is now fit and ready to play again. RCB desperately needed an experienced international bowler who could be effective in both the powerplay and death overs. Hazlewood fits that role perfectly, which is why the franchise invested heavily in him, signing him for ₹12.50 crore. Having already played for RCB in the past, he understands the expectations and the stature of the team. He will aim to deliver his best performances and help bring glory to the franchise and its passionate fans.
4. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (₹10.75 crore)
Bhuvneshwar Kumar is on the verge of making history as the highest wicket-taking pacer in IPL history. With 181 wickets in 176 matches, he is just two wickets away from surpassing Dwayne Bravo as the leading fast-bowler in terms of wickets. Renowned for his exceptional swing bowling, Bhuvneshwar has been signed by RCB for ₹10.75 crore. Although he is not currently part of the Indian national team, his performances in domestic cricket have been outstanding. There is no doubt about his skill and ability to deliver for his team, and RCB will be counting on his experience to make a significant impact this season.
5. Liam Livingstone (₹8.75 crore)
Liam Livingstone is undoubtedly RCB’s wild card – a complete package who can contribute with the bat, ball, and in the field. In 39 IPL matches, he has scored 939 runs at an average of 28.45, but his explosive strike rate of 162.46 sets him apart. With half of RCB’s matches being played at Chinnaswamy Stadium, a venue known for its batting-friendly pitches, it will be interesting to see how he performs. Despite his immense talent, Livingstone has struggled with consistency and hasn’t fully done justice to his potential. However, if he is given the No. 4 spot—where he is best suited—he could deliver much better results. This position would allow him to settle in before accelerating later. If utilized well, he could be the game-changer RCB has been searching for—an absolute monster in the middle order.
Steal Picks:
RCB made astute acquisitions, securing high-impact players at bargain prices:
1. Tim David (₹3 crore):
RCB has pulled off one of the best steal picks of the auction by securing Australian power-hitter Tim David for just ₹3 crores. Known for his finishing abilities, David has amassed 659 runs at a staggering strike rate of 170.29—numbers that speak for themselves. While he is yet to fully justify his immense talent, his ability to single-handedly dismantle bowling attacks and take his team across the line makes him a formidable asset, much like Andre Russell. Additionally, he provides a handy bowling option with his off-spin and is a terrific fielder, especially on the boundary line.
2. Jacob Bethell (₹2.6 crore):
Jacob Bethell, a rising English all-rounder, has been making waves with his fearless batting, crafty left-arm spin, and electric fielding. Spotted by Brian Lara at just 11, he has delivered standout performances in The Hundred and T20s, especially during England’s white-ball series against the West Indies, where he played some blistering knocks. His knack for accelerating innings, chipping in with crucial overs, and pulling off sharp fielding moves makes him a hidden gem. RCB’s decision to rope him in could prove to be a masterstroke, as his versatility and ability to turn games around add real firepower to their squad.
Players to Watch Out For
1. Overseas Player: Josh Hazlewood
Josh Hazlewood remains one of the most underrated bowlers in world cricket, excelling not just in Test matches but across all formats. His record in the IPL, where he has claimed 35 wickets in 27 matches at an economy of 8.06 speaks volumes about his adaptability and effectiveness in the shortest format. Known for his immaculate line and length, Hazlewood’s ability to extract movement and apply relentless pressure, particularly in the powerplay, makes him a valuable asset. His inclusion in RCB’s squad is expected to strengthen their bowling attack significantly, providing the control and incisiveness needed to stifle opposition batters and set the tone for the innings.
2. Uncapped Player: Rasikh Salam Dar
Rasikh Salam Dar is a rising star in Indian cricket. The talented pacer from Jammu has played 11 IPL matches so far, picking up 9 wickets. While his numbers may not look impressive, they don’t truly reflect his skill, as he bowled mostly at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where short boundaries make it tough for bowlers. He was selected for the ACC Men’s T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024-25, where he showcased his potential by taking 9 wickets at an average of just 10.33 and an economy of 7.15. This standout performance played a big role in him earning a ₹6 crore IPL contract with RCB. Rasikh has the ability to bowl over 140 km/h and can swing the ball both ways, making him a proper fast bowler. Training under Zaheer Khan has helped him improve, especially in the death overs. If he stays fit and plays all 14 matches this season, he has the potential to take over 18 wickets. Keep an eye on him—he could be one of the best bowlers this year.
Best XI Based on Home and Away Pitch:
Home Pitch (M. Chinnaswamy Stadium - Batting-Friendly, Small Boundaries)
1. Virat Kohli
2. Phil Salt (WK)
3. Rajat Patidar (C)
4. Liam Livingstone
5. Tim David
6. Jitesh Sharma
7. Krunal Pandya
8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
9. Josh Hazlewood
10. Yash Dayal
11. Rasikh Dar
Away Pitch (Slower Tracks Like Chennai, Lucknow - Spin-Friendly)
1. Virat Kohli
2. Phil Salt (WK)
3. Rajat Patidar (C)
4. Liam Livingstone
5. Tim David
6. Jitesh Sharma
7. Krunal Pandya
8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
9. Josh Hazlewood
10. Yash Dayal
11. Suyash Sharma
Prediction:
Looking at RCB’s overall squad and combination, they seem heavily reliant on their overseas players. If the management handles the team effectively, they have a strong chance of qualifying for the playoffs. However, their success will largely depend on their bowling performance.
Batting has never been an issue for RCB, as their batters consistently step up on different occasions. The real challenge has been their bowling, which has struggled, especially at Chinnaswamy Stadium—a venue where no team has a significant advantage. With high-scoring matches becoming the norm, even teams posting 240-250 runs can end up on the losing side. If RCB’s bowling unit delivers this season, they could be a formidable force. As of now, I believe they have a 50% chance of making it to the playoffs.
