5 players who have represented both RCB and DC in the IPL

The much anticipated clash between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 could prove to be one of the most electrifying encounters of the season. Scheduled for Sunday, April 27 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi the match will bring together two teams in red-hot form.

Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bengaluru journey so far in the IPL 2025

Delhi, having won six of their eight games of their matches so far, are perched at the second spot on the table with six points, showcasing an enviable consistency early in the tournament. On the other hand, RCB have proven themselves formidable on the road with five away victories and a rare home win and are currently placed third with twelve points from nine matches.

With the explosive firepower both sides possess, and the passionate home crowd expected to fill every seat, the stage is perfectly set for a riveting contest where every ball could shift momentum. Apart from the contest another intriguing factor is that several players in both squad have donned both jersey during their IPL career before moving to different pastures. As old friendships temporarily dissolve and new rivalries take center stage, fans can expect nothing less than a high-octane battle under the floodlights of Bengaluru.

5 players who have played for both DC and RCB in IPL history

1. KL Rahul: The early RCB stint before finding his prime

KL Rahul began his IPL journey with RCB back in 2013, although his first stint was relatively quiet, with just 20 runs from five matches. However, he made a stunning comeback to RCB in the 2016 season, where he displayed his true potential. In that campaign, Rahul amassed 397 runs in 14 games at a staggering average of 44.11, including four classy half-centuries. His strike rate of 146.49 highlighted his ability to accelerate effortlessly, making him a crucial cog in RCB’s top order. Now, as a part of Delhi Capitals in 2025, Rahul brings a wealth of experience and composure, building on the early foundations laid in Bengaluru.

2. Mitchell Starc: The left-arm spearhead who roared at Chinnaswamy

Mitchell Starc‘s association with RCB during the 2014 and 2015 seasons left a lasting impression on the franchise. In 27 games across those two years, the Australian left-arm quick scalped an impressive 34 wickets, with the 2015 season particularly standing out where he picked up 20 wickets in 13 matches. His fiery spells at the Chinnaswamy Stadium often tilted matches in RCB’s favour, showcasing his lethal pace and control. Now representing Delhi and already boasting eleven wickets this season, Starc returns to familiar territory at RCB’s home ground, ready to weave his magic once again.

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3. Faf du Plessis: The inspirational captaincy stint at RCB

Faf du Plessis played a pivotal leadership role during his time with RCB between 2022 and 2024. Teaming up with Virat Kohli, Faf not only led the side with calm authority but also delivered consistently with the bat, scoring 1636 runs from 45 matches. Despite never notching a century, he registered an outstanding 15 fifties for RCB, underlining his immense value as an opener and a stabilizer. With more than 4000 IPL runs to his name, Faf’s consistent contributions at the top order have made him one of the tournament’s finest. Now with Delhi, he brings leadership experience and batting pedigree into their lineup.

4. Phil Salt: The explosive opener with a new chapter

Phil Salt burst into the IPL scene in 2023 with Delhi, making an instant impact by smashing 218 runs in just nine innings at a jaw-dropping strike rate of 163.90. After a season with DC, he moved to Kolkata Knight Riders, where he lifted the IPL 2024 trophy as part of a champion squad. In the IPL 2025 auction, RCB smartly snapped him up, and Salt has already repaid the faith. In four innings this season, he has maintained an explosive strike rate of 170.96 and has registered a brisk half-century. His aggressive intent at the top makes him one of RCB’s most exciting acquisitions in recent memory.

5. Karun Nair: The quiet performer with deep ties to both franchises

Karun Nair began his IPL career with RCB during the 2012 and 2013 seasons, where he showed glimpses of his immense potential. His breakthrough, however, came with Rajasthan Royals in 2014, followed by a significant chapter with Delhi Daredevils. In 2017, Karun even captained Delhi for three games when Zaheer Khan was injured, displaying maturity beyond his years. Fast forward to IPL 2025, and Karun has returned to the Delhi after being bought for INR 50 lakh at the mega auction. His journey reflects a player who has grown through perseverance, and Delhi will now look to tap into his experience and calm middle-order presence in the second half of the season.

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