The recently concluded IPL 2025 auction saw the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) adopting a unique strategy that raised eyebrows among fans and experts. While they refrained from bidding for big-ticket players like KL Rahul and Mohammed Siraj, their calculated approach brought in several impactful additions, including Liam Livingstone, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, and Josh Hazlewood.
The Blueprint for Success
RCB’s think tank, led by experienced cricketers and analysts, devised a clear plan for the auction. A leaked social media post revealed a preliminary lineup blueprint that included several retained players like Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal. This set the foundation for their subsequent picks.
No Room for KL Rahul
One of the most talked-about decisions was RCB’s omission of KL Rahul from their wishlist. Instead of splurging on a single high-profile player, they diversified their investment across multiple roles, ensuring depth and balance in the squad. This pragmatic approach indicated their intent to build a cohesive unit rather than relying on individual brilliance.
#RCB target players for #IPL2025 Auction👇 pic.twitter.com/69OPZV5MEl
— RCBIANS OFFICIAL (@RcbianOfficial) December 10, 2024
RCB Team for IPL 2025
RCB made some smart picks from the overseas pool, including, Liam Livingstone, a versatile all-rounder with explosive batting and handy bowling, adds an X-factor to the team, while opener Phil Salt is expected to provide aggressive starts to complement Virat Kohli’s anchoring style, and the inclusion of experienced pacer Josh Hazlewood strengthens RCB’s bowling attack, particularly in the powerplay and death overs.
RCB’s focus on emerging Indian players is clear with the inclusion of promising wicketkeeper-batsman Jitesh Sharma, who brings energy and innovation to the middle order; Krunal Pandya, known for his finishing skills and bowling versatility, adding value to the lower-middle order; and the duo of Rasikh Salam and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who bolster the bowling lineup with variety and experience.
Analyzing the XI
RCB’s probable playing XI reflects a mix of experience and youth. With Kohli and Salt opening, followed by Patidar, Livingstone, and Pandya in the middle order, the batting lineup looks solid. Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar, and Salam form a potent pace attack, while Chahal’s spin will be a crucial weapon.
Yuzvendra Chahal is expected to play a pivotal role as an impact substitute, depending on match situations. This flexibility allows RCB to adapt their strategy dynamically, keeping opponents guessing.
RCB Full Squad for IPL 2025
Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal, Liam Livingstone (Rs. 8.75 crore), Phil Salt (Rs. 11.50 crore), Jitesh Sharma (Rs. 11 crore), Josh Hazlewood (Rs. 12.50 crore), Rasikh Dar (Rs. 6 crore), Suyash Sharma (Rs. 2.60 crore), Krunal Pandya (Rs. 5.75 crore), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Rs. 10.75 crore), Swapnil Singh (Rs. 50 lakh), Tim David (Rs. 3 crore), Romario Shepherd (Rs. 1.50 crore), Nuwan Thushara (Rs. 1.60 crore), Manoj Bhandage (Rs. 30 lakh), Jacob Bethell (Rs. 2.60 crore), Devdutt Padikkal (Rs. 2 crore), Swastik Chhikara (Rs. 30 lakh), Lungi Ngidi (Rs. 1 crore), Abhinandan Singh (Rs. 30 lakh), Mohit Rathee (Rs. 30 lakh).
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