The Royal Challengers Bengaluru is one of the teams that walked out of the IPL 2025 Mega Auction with their squad fairly balanced between both experience and fresh blood. They thus missed out on big names including KL Rahul and Yuzvendra Chahal but still managed to build a well-balanced lineup for a new season.
At the helm of the team is Virat Kohli, who remains the heart and soul of RCB. Likely to continue as captain, Kohli’s experience and consistency make him indispensable. He is expected to open the innings with England’s Phil Salt, an aggressive wicketkeeper-batter known for his explosive starts. Salt’s ability to dominate power plays pairs perfectly with Kohli’s calculated approach, laying a strong foundation for big totals.
The top order is further strengthened by the inclusion of Liam Livingstone, who is a dynamic all-rounder known for his clean hitting and versatility. His role as an enforcer will be crucial, particularly in the middle overs. Rajat Patidar is a trusted and reliable presence, adding stability with his ability to anchor the innings and switch gears when needed.
A middle order that is loaded with firepower is good to go. Tim David is an Australian attacking finisher with the passion to clear boundaries at will. There’s Jitesh Sharma, a hard-hitting wicket keeper-batter, who has the skills to transform games in the death overs. Krunal Pandya, an experienced all-rounder, brings balance to the lineup with his left-arm spin and batting skills.
RCB’s bowling attack is equally impressive, with a mix of experience and youthful exuberance. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, a master of swing and accuracy, will lead the pace attack alongside the ever-reliable Josh Hazlewood, whose ability to deliver under pressure is well-documented. Supporting them is Yash Dayal, whose left-arm pace adds variety to the attack and provides a fresh perspective. Suyash Sharma and Rasikh Salam could be the impact bowlers, depending on the pitch conditions.
Possible Playing 11 for RCB in IPL 2025
- Virat Kohli (Captain)
- Phil Salt
- Liam Livingstone
- Rajat Patidar
- Tim David
- Jitesh Sharma (Wicketkeeper)
- Krunal Pandya
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar
- Josh Hazlewood
- Yash Dayal
- Rasikh Salam / Suyash Sharma (Impact Player)
RCB’s well-balanced effort this season will be flexible and deep enough to face the various match situations. Their fans hope that the carefully selected team will deliver their long-awaited maiden IPL trophy in 2025.