Building a balanced and competitive squad

Important signings at the auction

RCB made bold moves during the auction, securing top talent and filling crucial gaps in its lineup.

• 
  Liam Livingstone (£8.75 crore)
• The dynamic English all-rounder was RCB’s first signing at the auction. Known for his explosive hitting and handy spin bowling, Livingstone adds depth to RCB’s middle order and versatility in the bowling department.
• 
  Phil Salt (₹11.50 crore)
• The England wicketkeeper-batter was another quality acquisition. Salt brings aggressive, top-class hitting and exceptional skills behind the stumps, taking on an important role in the team.
• 
  Jitesh Sharma (₹11 crore)
• The young Indian wicketkeeper-batter was a significant acquisition for RCB. His ability to accelerate in the middle and finish plays makes him a perfect addition to the lineup.
• 
  Josh Hazlewood (£12.5 crore)
• The Australian pacer, acquired at a hefty price, strengthens 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 crore)
• The promising Indian pacer was another strategic addition. Dar’s ability to swing the ball effectively adds variety to the bowling arsenal.
• 
  Suyash Sharma (₹2.6 crore)
• A talented spinner, Sharma’s inclusion strengthens RCB’s spin department and adds depth and flexibility to their bowling combinations.

Retained players: The core of RCB

Ahead of the auction, RCB engaged three key players:

• 
  Virat Kohli (₹21 crore): Kohli, the face of RCB and their most experienced campaigner, remains at the center of their plans.
• 
  Rajat Patidar (₹11 crore): Patidar’s consistent performances over the past few seasons earned him a crucial spot in the retained list.
• 
  Yash Dayal (₹5 crore): The left-arm pacer’s ability to swing the ball and pick wickets at crucial moments made him a clever substitute.

Dismissed players: Bold demands from management

RCB released some high-profile names including Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj. These decisions were probably due to the strategy of freeing up funds and upgrading the squad with new talent.

Analysis: A strong squad for IPL 2025

The RCB squad now has a mix of experience and youth. The inclusion of multi-dimensional players like Livingstone and Salt provides flexibility in both batting and bowling. Meanwhile, retaining Kohli ensures leadership stability.

challenges:

• The absence of Faf du Plessis and Maxwell could leave a gap in experience.
• It will be crucial to find the perfect team balance and use resources effectively.

With their revamped squad, RCB seems ready to go for their elusive maiden IPL title. Fans will be hoping this new approach will finally break the trophy drought.

RCB full squad for IPL 2025:

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