Creating a balanced and competitive team

Key signature at auction

RCB made bold moves during the auction, securing top-level talent and addressing critical gaps in their squad.

• 
  Liam Livingstone (₹8.75 million)
• The dynamic England all-rounder was RCB’s first signing in the auction. Known for his explosive batting and settled bowling, Livingston adds depth and versatility to the RCB middle order in the bowling department.
• 
  Phil Salt (₹ 11.50 crore)
• England’s wicketkeeper-batsman was another expensive buy. Salt brings top class aggressive hitting and exceptional skills behind the notes and fills an important role on the team.
• 
  Jitesh Sharma (₹11 million)
• The young Indian wicketkeeper-batter was a notable acquisition for RCB. His ability to accelerate in the midfield and finish plays makes him a perfect addition to the lineup.
• 
  Josh Hazlewood (₹12.5 million)
• The Australian pacer, who is being held at a high price, will bolster RCB’s pace attack. Hazlewood’s consistency with the ball and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset.
• 
  Rasikh Dar (₹6 million)
• India’s promising pacer was another strategic signing. The ability to hit the ball adds variety to the bowling arsenal.
• 
  Suyash Sharma (₹2.6 million)
• A talented spinner, Sharma’s coverage will strengthen RCB’s spin department and provide depth and flexibility to their bowling combination.

Players Retained: Core of RCB

Before the auction, RCB retained three key players:

• 
  Virat Kohli (₹21 million): The face of RCB and their seasoned campaigner, Kohli remains in their plans.
• 
  Rajat Patidar (₹11 million): Patidar’s consistent performances in the previous seasons earned him an important place in the reserved list.
• 
  Yash Dayal (₹5 million): The left-arm pacer’s ability to bowl and take wickets at crucial times made him a smart keeper.

Released players: A bold call by management

RCB released some notable names including Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj. These decisions were probably made as part of their strategy to free up funds and rebuild the team with new talent.

Analysis: Strong squad for IPL 2025

The RCB team now boasts of a mix of experience and youth. The inclusion of all-rounders like Livingstone and Salt provides flexibility in both batting and bowling. Meanwhile, Kohli’s retention will ensure leadership stability.

The problem:

• The absence of Faf du Plessis and Maxwell could leave a void in experience.
• Finding the perfect team balance and using resources effectively will be key.

With their revamped squad, RCB is all set to chase its elusive IPL title. Fans are hoping this new approach will finally break the trophy drought.

Complete RCB squad for IPL 2025:

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