RCB retained solely three players earlier than the IPL 2025 mega auction, with Virat Kohli being retained for Rs 21 crore.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) made a exceptional comeback within the latter half of the IPL 2024 season, securing a spot within the playoffs on the expense of the Chennai Super Kings. Despite their success, the group has opted to make some modifications, retaining solely Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli as capped players, together with the uncapped Yash Dayal.
As a end result, RCB will probably be actively searching for players of every kind to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
Players Retained
Virat Kohli ( Rs 21 crore), Rajat Patidar ( Rs 11 crore), Yash Dayal ( Rs 5 crore)
Remaining Purse: Rs 83 crore; RTM slots out there: 3; Available participant slots: 22 (8 abroad)
Auction Strategy
The Punjab Kings are the one group with extra monetary sources than RCB, giving them the power to make important bids for a variety of cricketers. With three Right to Match (RTM) playing cards at their disposal, they’ve the choice to retain key players corresponding to Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, du Plessis, and Jacks.
However, this monetary benefit may put stress on the Punjab Kings to bid larger than traditional, as different groups are conscious of their monetary energy. It is essential for them to keep away from overspending and preserve a balanced method through the auction. Andy Flower, together with his expertise in franchise cricket success, understands the significance of making a well-calculated and well-balanced group.
Probable buys
KL Rahul
When it was evident that Rahul wouldn’t be retained by Lucknow Super Giants, followers of RCB instantly started envisioning a reunion. Rahul, a homegrown expertise, established himself as a key participant within the IPL in 2016, contributing considerably to RCB’s success in reaching the ultimate. With the current retirement of Dinesh Karthik, RCB is in want of a wicket-keeper, ideally an Indian participant. Rahul, a high-profile participant, can be an excellent match for his or her franchise.
Faf du Plessis
Faf du Plessis, who captained RCB up to now three seasons, was not retained, which got here as a shock to many. However, contemplating his age, the choice was justifiable. Despite this, it doesn’t utterly rule out the potential for RCB reacquiring him. Due to his age, the competitors for his providers will not be as intense, doubtlessly giving RCB the chance to safe him and preserve stability on the high of the batting order.
Rishabh Pant
When discussing high-profile Indian wicket-keepers, Rishabh Pant is a reputation that can not be missed. At simply 27 years outdated, Pant has already amassed a major fan following and has the potential to develop into the face of the franchise as soon as Virat Kohli retires. Additionally, with the potential for RCB needing a brand new captain, Pant’s expertise main an IPL group up to now makes him a robust candidate for the position.
Rachin Ravindra
Ravindra has considerably elevated his fame because the ODI World Cup final 12 months. Just a month in the past, he delivered a formidable century in Bengaluru, which performed a vital position in New Zealand’s historic whitewash in opposition to India. It is clear that he thrives when batting at this venue and can deliver a beneficial left-handed choice to RCB’s high order, along with his abilities as an all-rounder.
Josh Hazlewood
Hazlewood has beforehand performed for RCB. Although he didn’t take part within the 2024 version, through the 2022 season, when he was totally match, he managed to take 20 wickets in simply 12 matches. Bowling has traditionally been a weak level for RCB within the IPL. However, with different distinguished pacers like Kagiso Rabada, Mitchell Starc, and Trent Boult prone to command larger costs, Hazlewood, a world-class bowler in his personal proper, may very well be the perfect alternative for the group.
Also learn| IPL 2025 mega auction: Full checklist of registered players, base worth and extra
