The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise has been one of the most popular teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), known for its star-studded lineup and ardent fanbase. Despite having some of the biggest names in cricket, RCB is yet to clinch the coveted IPL trophy.
Heading into the 2025 season, the team management will likely face tough decisions about their squad, including which players may not find a spot in the playing XI. Here are three RCB players who might not play a single match in the upcoming season due to form, competition, or team strategy.
1. Karn Sharma – The Veteran Spinner
Karn Sharma, a seasoned leg-spinner, has been part of the RCB setup for the past few seasons. While he brings experience and a wealth of knowledge to the team, his opportunities have been limited, especially with the emergence of younger spinners like Shahbaz Ahmed and Wanindu Hasaranga’s dominance in the spin department.
RCB’s strategy often revolves around fielding an attacking spinner who can take wickets in the middle overs, and Karn’s conservative bowling approach may not align with this tactic. Moreover, his lack of recent match practice and dwindling performances in domestic cricket further diminish his chances of making the playing XI. Unless injuries or unforeseen circumstances arise, Karn Sharma could spend IPL 2025 on the bench.
2. Suyash Prabhudessai – The Emerging Talent
Suyash Prabhudessai, a young and promising all-rounder, has shown glimpses of his talent in previous IPL seasons. However, his inconsistency with both bat and ball has made it difficult for the team management to rely on him in crucial games.
RCB’s batting lineup is packed with established players like Faf du Plessis, Virat Kohli, and Glenn Maxwell, leaving limited opportunities for emerging talents like Suyash. Additionally, the inclusion of high-performing all-rounders in the squad, such as Michael Bracewell or even new acquisitions, puts Suyash lower in the pecking order. Unless he demonstrates exceptional form in domestic cricket before the IPL, it’s unlikely that he’ll get a game this season.
3. Akash Deep – The Fringe Pacer
Akash Deep, a right-arm medium pacer, has had sporadic opportunities to prove his mettle for RCB. While he has shown potential in a few matches, the competition in RCB’s pace attack, featuring the likes of Mohammed Siraj, Josh Hazlewood, and Harshal Patel, makes it tough for him to secure a spot.
With RCB likely to depend on their overseas pacers and Indian seamers with proven IPL credentials, Akash might find himself sidelined once again. Unless RCB decides to rotate their bowlers or faces injury concerns, Akash Deep may remain on the sidelines throughout the tournament.
The IPL is a platform where every player aspires to shine, but with limited spots in the playing XI, not everyone gets a chance to showcase their skills. For RCB, the 2025 season will be about optimizing their squad and balancing experience with youth.
While Karn Sharma, Suyash Prabhudessai, and Akash Deep might miss out on playing opportunities, they remain valuable members of the squad, ready to step up when called upon. RCB fans will hope that this season brings them closer to the elusive IPL trophy, regardless of who takes the field.
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