Where they finished last year
After dropping seven of their first eight games, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pulled off an incredible comeback by winning six straight games and defeating Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on net run-rate to guarantee a postseason berth. However, Rajasthan Royals (RR) ended RCB’s incredible run in the Eliminator, and the team is currently in its 18th season without winning an IPL championship. Since 18 is the team’s talisman and Virat Kohli’s shirt number, a lot has been made of it and will be made of it. RCB hopes it represents something more significant.
What’s new in IPL 2025
The selection of Rajat Patidar as captain is a significant shift for RCB, which has always delegated leadership responsibilities to seasoned international players. The huge auction last year seems to indicate that roles—rather than personalities—are being prioritized more. Their caution in not pursuing well-known players like Rishabh Pant, Yuzvendra Chahal, and KL Rahul after a particular price point is evidence of that. That has previously had an impact on their wallet.
More squad balance is the outcome. They may be able to protect objectives thanks to their more versatile bowling assault, particularly in the harsh conditions at M Chinnaswamy Stadium. They have opted for dependability with Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who will cost a total of INR 23.25 crore. RCB, In addition to Phil Salt and Jitesh Sharma, they have other multifaceted players like Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell, and Krunal Pandya who can provide firepower throughout.
RCB, By adding a fast-bowling coach in Omkar Salvi and a mentor in Dinesh Karthik, who was with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) while Karthik was captain, the support staff led by Mo Bobat and Andy Flower has further increased the Indian presence.
Likely best XII
1 Phil Salt, 2 Virat Kohli, 3 Rajat Patidar (capt), 4 Liam Livingstone, 5 Jitesh Sharma (wk), 6 Jacob Bethell/Tim David, 7 Krunal Pandya, 8 Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 9 Yash Dayal, 10 Josh Hazlewood, 11 Suyash Sharma, 12 Rasikh Salam/Devdutt Padikkal
