As the IPL 2025 approaches, all 10 franchises have successfully strengthened their squads in the mega auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) once again invested heavily in big names and international stars, and this time they seem to have crafted a balanced, formidable lineup. Here’s a breakdown of RCB’s latest acquisitions and where they might fit into the playing XI.
1. Pill Salt (Wicketkeeper – Opening Batsman)
England’s star wicketkeeper, Pill Salt, who made waves last year with Kolkata Knight Riders, has now been acquired by RCB. Salt is expected to take on wicketkeeping duties and may also open the batting alongside the team’s captain.
2. Virat Kohli (Opener & Captain)
Virat Kohli continues to lead RCB as its captain and is expected to open the batting, a position where he has excelled in previous seasons. Kohli’s leadership and aggressive batting will be crucial for RCB’s success this season.
3. Rajat Patidar (Batsman at Number 3)
Rajat Patidar has proven his worth in the past seasons, and RCB will retain him for the upcoming IPL. He is expected to bat at number 3, anchoring the middle order with his consistent performances.
4. Liam Livingstone (All-rounder, Number 4)
English all-rounder Liam Livingstone, who previously played for Punjab Kings, has been bought by RCB this time. Known for his power-hitting and handy bowling, Livingstone will strengthen the middle order and contribute with both bat and ball.
5. Jitesh Sharma (Wicketkeeper-Batsman at Number 5)
Jitesh Sharma, who has made his mark with Punjab Kings, will join RCB’s middle order. As a wicketkeeper-batsman, he will provide flexibility and is likely to bat at number 5.
6. Tim David (Finisher at Number 6)
Australian powerhouse Tim David returns to RCB as a finisher. Known for his big-hitting abilities, David will be slotted at number 6, where he can accelerate in the final overs and provide the finishing touch.
7. Krunal Pandya (All-rounder at Number 7)
All-rounder Krunal Pandya, previously with Lucknow Supergiants, joins RCB for the first time. As a spin-bowling all-rounder, Krunal will bat at number 7 and bolster the middle overs with his spin bowling and lower-order batting.
8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Pacer at Number 8)
After 14 years, Team India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar returns to RCB. He will lead the team’s pace attack and contribute at number 8 with both bat and ball. Bhuvneshwar’s experience in the death overs will be valuable for RCB.
9. Josh Hazlewood (Fast Bowler at Number 9)
Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is one of the key overseas bowlers in RCB’s squad. Hazlewood is certain to feature in the playing XI, bringing his experience and skill to the team, especially in the powerplay and death overs.
10. Yash Dayal (Pacer at Number 10)
Indian fast bowler Yash Dayal, who has already made a name for himself in previous seasons, will continue with RCB. He is likely to play in the starting XI at number 10, adding strength to the pace attack.
11. Suyesh Sharma (Spinner at Number 11)
Suyesh Sharma, who played for Kolkata Knight Riders last season, is expected to be the 11th player in RCB’s lineup. Known for his clever googly and spin attack, Suyesh will be an exciting addition to the team, especially in the middle overs.
Conclusion
RCB has built a dynamic team for IPL 2025, with a mix of experienced players and exciting newcomers. With the likes of Virat Kohli, Liam Livingstone, and Josh Hazlewood, RCB is well-equipped to challenge for the title. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how the team evolves and who gets the nod in the playing XI.
Leave a comment