RCB’s Strategy at IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Building a Balanced and Competitive Squad

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) entered the second day of the IPL 2025 mega auction with the highest purse among all franchises – ₹30.65 crore. After an action-packed first day, in which they signed six players, RCB focused on building a balanced team, blending explosive batting firepower, reliable all-rounders and hard-hitting bowlers .

Key signings at the auction

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

• 
  Liam Livingstone (₹8.75 crore)
• The dynamic English all-rounder was RCB’s first signing at the auction. Known for his explosive batting 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-batsman was another valuable acquisition. Salt brings a top-notch aggressive batting and exceptional skills behind the stumps, filling a vital role in the team.
• 
  Jitesh Sharma (₹11 crore)
• The young Indian keeper-batsman was a big buy for RCB. His ability to accelerate through the middle of overs and finish games makes him a perfect addition to the line-up.
• 
  Josh Hazlewood (₹12.5 crore)
• The Australian leader, retained at a high price, strengthens RCB’s pace attack. Hazlewood’s consistency on 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 signing. 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, providing depth and flexibility to their bowling combinations.

Players retained: the core of RCB

Ahead of the auction, RCB shortlisted three key players:

• 
  Virat Kohli (₹21 crore): The face of RCB and its most experienced campaigner, Kohli remains at the heart of their plans.
• 
  Rajat Patidar (₹11 crore): Patidar’s consistent performances in previous seasons earned him a crucial spot in the shortlisted list.
• 
  Yash Dayal (₹5 crore): The left-arm pacer’s ability to swing the ball and pick wickets at crucial times has made him a smart retainer.

Players released: bold calls from management

RCB has released some high-profile names including Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj. These decisions were likely driven by their strategy to free up funds and reorganize the team with new talent.

Analysis: A strong team for IPL 2025

The RCB team now benefits from a mix of experience and youth. The inclusion of multi-dimensional players like Livingstone and Salt provides flexibility in both batting and bowling. Meanwhile, Kohli’s retention ensures leadership stability.

Challenges:

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

With their revamped team, RCB looks set to chase their elusive maiden IPL title. Fans are hoping this new approach will finally end the trophy drought.

RCB full squad for IPL 2025:

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