RCB will have their eyes on acquiring three major marquee players when the IPL 2025 Mega Auction kicks off tomorrow.
With a substantial purse of ₹83 crore and three Right-to-Match (RTM) cards at their disposal, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) look all set to make high-budget purchases from the marquee set. They have retained only Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal and now they will be looking to fill other major areas of their squad.
While there are 12 marquee players to choose from, RCB will be primarily interested in acquiring these three players:
KL Rahul has previously donned the RCB jersey during the 2013 and 2016 seasons. His tenure with the franchise was quite successful, amassing 417 runs in 19 matches. Rahul’s subsequent stints with other franchises have further solidified his reputation as a dependable top-order batter, accumulating over 4,000 runs in the IPL.
RCB’s interest in Rahul is multifaceted. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed addresses the team’s need for a reliable opener. Moreover, with the departure of Faf du Plessis, RCB is in search of a new captain.
Rahul’s leadership experience, having captained the Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants in previous seasons, makes him a compelling candidate for the role. His familiarity with the RCB setup and the Chinnaswamy Stadium’s conditions further enhance his suitability.
Moreover, with Dinesh Karthik’s retirement, RCB will need a wicket-keeper as well, and Rahul fulfills that necessity too.
Yuzvendra Chahal’s association with RCB from 2014 to 2021 was highly productive, during which he became the franchise’s leading wicket-taker with 139 dismissals in 113 matches. His departure ahead of the 2022 season left a noticeable void in RCB’s spin attack.
Chahal’s subsequent performances with the Rajasthan Royals, where he claimed 66 wickets over three seasons, show his continuous exploits in the format.
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RCB’s spin department has faced challenges in recent seasons, and the potential reacquisition of Chahal could provide the much-needed experience and skill. His ability to control the middle overs and provide breakthroughs aligns with RCB’s strategic objectives. The franchise’s management is reportedly keen on bringing Chahal back into the fold to bolster their bowling lineup.
Mohammed Siraj has been an integral part of RCB’s bowling unit since his debut for the team in 2018. Over 87 matches, he has taken 83 wickets, often leading the pace attack with commendable performances. His release ahead of the 2025 auction was a strategic move, possibly aimed at re-signing him through the auction process at a lower price.
Siraj’s ability to deliver in both the powerplay and death overs makes him a valuable asset. His familiarity with the team’s dynamics and the Chinnaswamy pitch conditions adds to his appeal. RCB’s management is expected to utilize their RTM card to secure Siraj’s services once again, ensuring continuity in their bowling unit.
The acquisition of these three players would address critical areas in RCB’s lineup:
