Former India bowler and ex-Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Venkatesh Prasad has criticized the franchise’s approach to utilizing local talent in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The three-time finalists have often relied heavily on star players and overseas recruits, struggling to nurture homegrown talent like some of their rivals.
Although RCB have yet to secure an IPL title, their strong fan base and star power have made them a major force in the tournament. However, unlike other teams that have successfully identified and developed local talent for long-term success, RCB have failed to implement a similar strategy.
Despite improvements in scouting and a greater focus on trials, the franchise has yet to discover and integrate promising local players into their squad. The Karnataka Premier League (KPL) was introduced as a competitive platform and a stepping stone to bridge this gap.
Although RCB acquired a few local players through the auction, none managed to make a significant impact. Venkatesh Prasad has slammed the franchise’s management for focusing on brand value over nurturing local talent.
“How a team is managed makes all the difference. Other teams are putting faith in local talent, so why is not RCB doing the same? Are they building a brand, or are they truly focused on winning the IPL? They need to get the best out of their players, which has not happened so far,” Venkatesh Prasad said on Jio Hotstar (via ANI).
RCB’s current squad includes local talents Manoj Bhandage and Devdutt Padikkal. Bhandage, part of the setup since 2023, was re-signed in the 2025 mega auction after being released but has yet to make his IPL debut despite consistent performances in the shortest format.
Padikkal was RCB’s preferred opener until his release after the 2021 season. Following underwhelming stints with Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), he has returned to his home franchise for the 2025 season.
RCB Embark on a New Journey with Rajat Patidar as Captain
In the early years of the IPL, RCB had several local players in their squad, including legends like Anil Kumble and Rahul Dravid. Over time, Karnataka cricketers such as Manish Pandey, KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, and R Vinay Kumar joined the team but struggled to make a lasting impact.
Now, as RCB enters a new era following another three-year cycle, they have made a bold move by appointing Rajat Patidar as captain after releasing Faf du Plessis. RCB will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens on Friday, March 22.
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