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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had a season filled with ups and downs during Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. Despite facing challenges early on, they made a remarkable turnaround with six consecutive victories that secured them a spot in the playoffs. However, their quest for the elusive IPL trophy remains unfulfilled, leaving them eager to strategize for the upcoming season.
Anticipating the mega auction for IPL 2025
As the IPL 2025 approaches, a mega auction is on the horizon, marking the end of the current cycle. Traditionally, franchises have been allowed to retain a maximum of four players, but there are ongoing discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about possibly increasing this number to eight. This auction will be a crucial opportunity for teams to reshape their squads and build the strongest possible combinations to compete for the title.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s potential strategy
RCB will be looking to make significant changes to their squad as they prepare for the IPL 2025 season. With the expected 3+1 retention rule, which allows franchises to retain either three Indian players and one overseas player or two Indian and two overseas players, RCB will be looking carefully select their core players. Their focus will be on building a team capable of finally breaking the jinx and securing their first-ever IPL title.
Also READ: 3 IPL Teams that could bid for Glenn Maxwell if RCB releases him ft. CSK
RCB’s IPL 2025 planning: Retention of 4 key players
1. Virat Kohli
Overview: Virat Kohli, the linchpin of RCB, ended IPL 2024 with a stellar performance, amassing 741 runs. Kohli’s influence on the team is irreplaceable, and his retention seems inevitable. His association with RCB is iconic, and retaining him is essential for the team’s strategy.
Strengths:
- Exceptional Batting Skill: Kohli’s ability to consistently score runs and perform under pressure is unmatched. His prolific scoring this season underscores his ongoing form and significance.
- Leadership Qualities: Despite not being a captain, Kohli provides valuable leadership, inspiring and guiding the team both on and off the field.
- Experience and Stability: His extensive experience in the IPL and his role as a long-time pillar of RCB’s batting lineup make him a critical asset.
2. Cameron Green
Overview: Australian all-rounder Cameron Green was acquired by RCB for INR 17.5 crores ahead of IPL 2024. Although his performance this season was decent, his potential as a top-class all-rounder is clear. Despite a slightly subdued performance in his second season of the coveted league, Green showcased his potential with 255 runs and 10 wickets. His all-round capabilities and previous stellar performances make him a valuable asset.
Strengths:
- All-Round Ability: Green excels with both bat and ball. His past performances, including a stellar 2023 season, highlight his capacity to impact games in multiple ways.
- Powerful Batting: Known for his aggressive and high-impact batting, Green adds depth to the lower middle order and can accelerate the scoring in crucial phases.
- Useful Bowling: Provides valuable overs with his medium pace, capable of picking up key wickets and offering balance to the team.
3. Rajat Patidar
Overview: Rajat Patidar, once a replacement player, has become a key figure for RCB. His explosive performances, particularly in the latter part of the 2024 season, have made him a irreplaceable part. Patidar’s dynamic middle-order batting and impressive strike rate of 177.13 from the last season highlight his importance to the team. He also achieved the milestone of becoming the third cricketer in the overall history of the IPL to smashed four consecutive 50+ scores in an away game.
Strengths:
- Dynamic Batting: Patidar’s aggressive approach and ability to score quickly, especially in the middle order, make him a game-changer.
- Consistent Performance: His impressive strike rate and consistent run-scoring have proven his reliability and ability to perform under pressure.
- Adaptability: Capable of playing various roles in the middle order, adjusting his approach based on the match situation.
4. Will Jacks
Overview: England all-rounder Will Jacks was brought in for INR 3.2 crores in the IPL 2024 mini-auction. Despite limited opportunities, his performances have been impressive. Jacks’ explosive strike rate of 175.57 and contributions in limited opportunities make him a strong contender for retention. His ability to perform under pressure and his explosive batting make him a important part for RCB.
Strengths:
- Explosive Batting: Jacks is known for his aggressive batting style and ability to score quickly, providing a boost to RCB’s lower middle order.
- Useful Bowling: Adds value with his off-spin, contributing with crucial wickets and offering additional options in the bowling attack.
- Fielding Skills: Strong in the field, which complements his overall contribution to the team.
