Rajasthan Royals (RR) have consistently been a competitive side in the IPL, often punching above their weight with a mix of young talent and experienced stars.
As they prepare for the 2025 season, RR will look to address their long-standing issues with middle-order balance and death bowling, focusing on high-impact players in the marquee set at the IPL 2025 auction.
Here’s why some of these players could be game-changers for Rajasthan Royals.
David Miller’s potential return to Rajasthan Royals could significantly bolster their middle order. Having previously played for RR and currently a part of their sister franchises—Barbados Royals and Paarl Royals—Miller is already familiar with the Royals’ system and culture.
His explosive batting at No. 4 or 5 would provide flexibility to the lineup, allowing RR to strategically utilize Shimron Hetmyer’s finishing skills. The prospect of Miller and Hetmyer batting in tandem is daunting for any opposition, as their ability to clear the ropes consistently makes them a nightmare for bowlers. His addition will also allow RR to give Riyan Parag a stable role in the top 4, rather than use him as a finisher alongside Hetmyer.
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Miller’s experience in high-pressure situations is another factor that makes him an ideal target. His performances for Gujarat Titans in the 2022 IPL, where he was instrumental in their title-winning campaign, are a testament to his capability as a match-winner.
Additionally, his adaptability allows him to anchor an innings or accelerate when required, adding much-needed stability to RR’s often inconsistent middle order. With a relatively reasonable price tag compared to other marquee players, Miller would be a smart acquisition for RR to strengthen their batting and maintain a balance between youth and experience.
Rajasthan Royals will undoubtedly aim to buy back Yuzvendra Chahal, although they have no RTMs left after six retentions. The IPL’s leading wicket-taker, Chahal is a proven match-winner and one of the best domestic leg-spinners available at the auction.
Chahal’s three-season stint with Rajasthan Royals has been nothing short of exceptional, with 66 wickets in 46 games since 2022. His ability to deliver breakthroughs in crucial moments makes him a cornerstone of any T20 side. Having secured Chahal for ₹6.5 crore in the 2022 auction, RR will likely prioritize re-signing him despite competition from other franchises.
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Chahal’s versatility is another reason why he remains a valuable asset for RR. He excels in the middle overs, where his ability to control runs and pick wickets is unparalleled. On spinning tracks, Chahal has also been deployed in the powerplay and at the death, showcasing his adaptability.
With his extensive IPL experience and success with the Royals, he is the ideal spinner to lead their bowling attack in 2025. Even though RR no longer hold an RTM card, their familiarity with Chahal and his consistent performances make him a priority in the auction.
Liam Livingstone offers Rajasthan Royals an opportunity to address their issues with lineup balance and add firepower to both their batting and bowling. Known for his ability to clear boundaries effortlessly, Livingstone is a versatile batter who can slot into various positions, providing depth to the batting order. His inclusion alongside David Miller and Shimron Hetmyer would create one of the most explosive middle orders in the league.
Livingstone also brings value as a part-time spinner, offering RR a sixth bowling option—something they have struggled with in the past. His all-round capabilities make him a flexible player who can adapt to different match scenarios. Additionally, RR’s history of trusting English players, such as Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer and even Tom Kohler-Cadmore last year, makes Livingstone a natural fit for their setup.
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Recently released by Punjab Kings, Livingstone might come within RR’s budget, making him an attractive option. While Punjab Kings hold RTM cards, they appear unlikely to use them as they focus on rebuilding. This opens the door for RR to secure a player who could fill multiple roles in their lineup, addressing both balance and depth.
With a solid core but gaps in middle-order stability and spin depth, Rajasthan Royals will aim to make smart acquisitions in the IPL 2025 auction. Targeting players like Miller, Chahal, and Livingstone would enhance their impressive retentions ahead of IPL 2025.
