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In what could be a defining endorsement for Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s campaign in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, former Indian cricketer and Chennai Super Kings stalwart Ambati Rayudu has shared his thoughts on RCB’s title credentials under their new captain Rajat Patidar.
Beating giants in their own fortresses: RCB’s strong start
RCB’s early season performance has been nothing short of remarkable. They have done what few teams have managed in recent IPL history – win away at venues where they’ve traditionally struggled. They began their campaign with a convincing seven-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. But their most significant statement came when they humbled CSK by 50 runs at the Chepauk, marking their first win in Chennai since the inaugural 2008 season. Despite a setback at home against Gujarat Titans, the team quickly rebounded by securing a thrilling 12-run win over Mumbai Indians at Wankhede – a venue where they hadn’t tasted victory in a decade.
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Ambati Rayudu’s bold prediction regarding IPL 2025
Speaking on ESPNcricinfo ‘s TimeOut show, Rayudu expressed that under debutant captain Rajat Patidar, RCB has all the tools to become IPL champions, echoing the iconic chant, “Ee Sala Cup Namde” (This year, the cup is ours). Rayudu emphasized that RCB’s past failures were not due to being outclassed by other teams, but rather due to their own inconsistencies.
Rayudu highlighted that the fundamental difference in this year’s RCB outfit is the stability in their playing XI and the clarity in their approach. According to him, teams like Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings are still experimenting with their lineups, whereas RCB have struck a balance that’s rare in the IPL. He noted that consistency – not external dominance – has often been RCB’s biggest enemy. Their failures in the past, as per Rayudu, have mostly been self-inflicted. However, the class and potential have always been there.
“Nobody really defeats RCB – it’s always their own shortcomings. They’ve always had the team to win the IPL. That’s why we joke about them. Nobody talks about Delhi or Punjab this way – it’s always RCB because their team genuinely has potential. This year, with [Rajat] Patidar [as captain], ee sala cup RCB de (this year the cup is RCB’s),” Rayudu said.
