Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), a perennial contender in the Indian Premier League (IPL), have reached the final stage three times but remained elusive to the championship trophy.
Challenges ahead for RCB
As anticipation builds for the upcoming 17th season, RCB, armed with a budget of 23.15 crores, is set on a mission to strengthen its squad through strategic player acquisitions in the IPL 2024 auction. The franchise is eager to break its title drought and create a formidable team capable of clinching the IPL trophy.
5 players RCB could bid for in IPL 2024 auction:
1. Kartik Tyagi
Tyagi’s recent exploits in domestic cricket, coupled with his impressive track record in the IPL, where he secured 15 wickets in 19 matches, establish him as a potent force in the fast-bowling department. His ability to bowl at a brisk pace makes him a coveted asset, and teams in search of a dependable Indian pacer are expected to engage in aggressive bidding for his services. Despite not getting ample opportunities with the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) after moving from the Rajasthan Royals (RR), this promising seamer, now available in the auction pool, is a target for RCB. The Bangalore-based franchise aims to harness his talents to create a formidable pace battery, partnering him with Mohammed Siraj and Reece Topley.
2. Adil Rashid
Rashid, the seasoned English spinner, currently stands as the premier white-ball spin bowler globally. Renowned as England‘s main weapon in T20Is, Rashid has consistently delivered stellar performances worldwide. Making his IPL debut in 2023 for SRH, he played two games, claiming two crucial wickets. With SRH releasing him, Rashid becomes an available option for other franchises. Boasting an impressive record of 98 T20I wickets, he has established himself as a reliable wicket-taker in the shorter format. As RCB seeks to address the spin department gap, especially after releasing Wanindu Hasaranga, Rashid emerges as a prime candidate for the upcoming season.
3. Mitchell Starc
Starc, the exceptional Australian speedster, has declared his intent to enter the IPL 2024 auction, presenting a lucrative opportunity for RCB. Known for his knack to make the new ball talk and execute impeccable yorkers in the slog overs, Starc stands out as a premier fast-bowling choice. Despite being a high-budget pick, RCB can comfortably afford him, given their substantial remaining budget. Starc had previously played for RCB in 2015, bringing both familiarity and past success with the franchise, making him a compelling target for the upcoming season.
Also READ: 5 teams who can target Mitchell Starc in the IPL 2024 auction
4. Shahrukh Khan
Shahrukh, with his dual proficiency as a skilled batter and a handy off-spinner, emerges as a versatile asset for any IPL team. His noteworthy performances in the IPL, amassing 426 runs in 33 matches, contribute to elevating his market value. RCB, boasting a top order filled with destructive foreign batters like Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell and Cameron Green, recognizes the need for a dynamic Indian batter. In this context, Shahrukh becomes a compelling option, capable of providing the explosive firepower required alongside the experienced Dinesh Kartik in the middle order.
5. Daniel Sams
Daniel Sams, released by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), emerges as a potential target for RCB, especially after parting ways with David Willey, Wayne Parnell and Harshal Patel. Sams, an Australian cricketer, brings a versatile skill set to the table. Apart from his proficiency in bowling, he has the ability to contribute with the bat, scoring handy runs. His capabilities make him a valuable all-rounder, filling a crucial role in the lower order for the Bangalore-based franchise.
