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

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) entered Day 2 of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction with the highest purse among all franchises — ₹ 30.65 crore. After an action-packed Day 1, where they secured six players, RCB focused on constructing a balanced squad, a mix of explosive batting firepower, reliable all-rounders, and impact bowlers.

Key Signature at Auction

RCB made bold moves during the auction, acquiring top-level talents and addressing crucial gaps in their lineup.

• 
  Liam Livingstone (₹8.75 crore)
• The dynamic England all-rounder was RCB’s first signing in 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-batter was another high value acquisition. Salt brings top-order aggressive batting and exceptional skills behind the stumps, filling a vital role in the team.
• 
  Jitesh Sharma (₹11 crore)
• The young Indian wicketkeeper-batter was a significant buy for RCB. His ability to accelerate in the middle overs and finish the game makes him a perfect addition to the line-up.
• 
  Josh Hazlewood (₹12.5 crore)
• The Australian pacer, held at a hefty price, bolsters 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 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

Before the auction, RCB retained three key players:

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

Released players: Bold calls from Management

RCB fielded some high-profile names, including Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, and Mohammed Siraj. These decisions were probably driven by their strategy to free up funds and renew the squad with new talent.

Analysis: Strong squad for IPL 2025

The RCB squad now boasts 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 the stability of the management.

Challenges:

• The absence of Faf du Plessis and Maxwell could leave an experience gap.
• Finding the perfect team balance and using resources effectively will be crucial.

With their revamped squad, RCB look set to go in search of their elusive maiden IPL title. Fans hope this new approach will finally break the trophy drought.

RCB Full Squad for IPL 2025:

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