Building a balanced and competitive squad

Key Signatures at Auction

RCB took bold steps during the auction to secure top-level talent and address critical gaps in their line-up.

• 
  Liam Livingstone (₹8.75 crore)
• The dynamic England all-rounder was RCB’s first signing at the auction. Known for his explosive batting and handy spin bowling, Livingstone adds depth to RCB’s middle order and versatility in the bowling department.
• 
  Phil Salt (₹11.50 crore)
• The England wicket-keeper batsman was another high-value acquisition. Salt plays an important role in the team, offering aggressive top-order batting and excellent skills behind the stumps.
• 
  Jitesh Sharma (₹11 crore)
• The young Indian wicket-keeper batsman was an important purchase for RCB. His ability to accelerate in the middle overs and close out the game makes him a perfect addition to the line-up.
• 
  Josh Hazelwood (₹12.5 crore)
• The Australian pacer retained at a high price strengthens RCB’s pace attack. Hazlewood’s consistency on the ball and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset.
• 
  Rashik Dar (₹6 crore)
• The promising Indian pacer was another strategic signing. Dar’s ability to swing the ball effectively adds variety to his bowling arsenal.
• 
  Suyash Sharma (₹2.6 billion)
• The addition of talented spinner Sharma strengthens RCB’s spin department, providing depth and flexibility to the bowling combination.

Players they have: RCB’s key players

Ahead of the auction, RCB secured three key players.

• 
  Virat Kohli (₹21 crore): Kohli, the face of RCB and its most experienced campaigner, remains central to their plans.
• 
  Rajat Patidar (₹11 crore): Patidar’s consistent performances in the previous season earned him a prominent spot in the retained list.
• 
  Yash Dayal (₹5 crore): The left-arm pacer’s ability to swing the ball and pick wickets at crucial moments have made him a smart retainer.

Players released: A bold call from management

RCB announced some high-profile names including Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj. This decision was likely driven by a strategy to secure funding and revamp the team with new talent.

Analysis: Strong team for IPL 2025

The RCB team now boasts a mix of experience and youth. The inclusion of multi-dimensional players like Livingstone and Salt provides flexibility in both batting and bowling. Meanwhile, retaining Kohli ensures leadership stability.

challenge:

• The absence of Faf du Plessis and Maxwell could leave an experience void.
• It’s important to find the perfect team balance and utilize resources effectively.

With a revamped squad, RCB seems ready to chase that elusive first IPL title. Fans hope this new approach can finally break their trophy drought.

RCB full squad for IPL 2025:

• 
  possession: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal
• 
  purchased: Liam Livingstone, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma