As the IPL 2025 mega auction draws closer, the spotlight is on the retention strategies of various franchises. The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), one of the most followed teams in the tournament, are expected to make some key decisions regarding which players to retain. The BCCI has allowed teams to retain up to six players, with a maximum of five capped players and one uncapped player. RCB, known for their star-studded squad, will have to make some tough choices, balancing between experience and future potential.
Here’s a detailed look at RCB’s likely retention strategy ahead of IPL 2025:
1. Virat Kohli (Capped)
No surprises here, as Virat Kohli is expected to be RCB’s top retention pick. Kohli has been the face of RCB for over a decade and continues to be the backbone of their batting lineup. His outstanding performance in IPL 2024, where he scored 741 runs at an average of 61.75 and a strike rate of 154.70, proves that the legendary batter still has plenty to offer. Given his record-breaking achievements, including being the only player to cross the 8000-run mark in IPL history, Kohli’s retention is almost certain.
2. Mohammed Siraj (Capped)
RCB’s bowling spearhead, Mohammed Siraj, is another obvious choice for retention. Siraj has consistently been one of the top performers for the franchise, known for his ability to swing the ball and trouble opposition batsmen in the powerplay. He has also developed into a reliable death bowler, executing yorkers with precision. Considering his growth and stature as one of India’s premier fast bowlers, RCB will likely retain Siraj to lead their bowling attack in IPL 2025.
3. Rajat Patidar (Capped)
Rajat Patidar’s journey from being an underdog to a key player for RCB has been remarkable. The middle-order batter has impressed with his consistent performances, scoring 799 runs at an average of 34.74 and a strike rate of 158.85. Patidar’s ability to handle both pace and spin makes him a valuable asset for RCB. With his power-hitting skills and adaptability, Patidar is expected to be one of the capped players retained by the franchise.
4. Cameron Green (Capped)
Australia’s star all-rounder Cameron Green was acquired by RCB from Mumbai Indians for a staggering INR 17.50 crore in 2024. While Green’s IPL 2024 season was hindered by injuries, he remains one of the most talented young all-rounders in the game. Green’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a player of great value, and RCB could use the Right to Match (RTM) card to re-sign him at a lower price in the upcoming auction. Despite his moderate 2024 season, Green’s all-around potential means RCB will want to keep him in their ranks.
5. Anuj Rawat (Uncapped)
The uncapped player retention rule gives RCB an opportunity to secure a promising talent, and Anuj Rawat fits the bill. The wicketkeeper-batter has shown glimpses of his potential in the IPL and has been in excellent form in domestic tournaments, particularly the Delhi Premier League. With Dinesh Karthik having retired from the IPL, Rawat is expected to take up the role of the first-choice wicketkeeper for RCB. His aggressive batting style and ability to provide quick runs in the middle order make him a valuable addition to the team, making him the likely uncapped retention for IPL 2025.
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6. Will Jacks (RTM)
English all-rounder Will Jacks made a huge impact in IPL 2024, emerging as a standout player for RCB. Jacks smashed 230 runs at an explosive strike rate of 175.57, including a scintillating century that turned heads. Apart from his batting, Jacks brings versatility to the table with his off-spin bowling. With Faf du Plessis nearing the end of his IPL career and Glenn Maxwell potentially slowing down, Jacks could be the perfect player to take over the role of a batting all-rounder for RCB. His all-round capabilities make him a likely retention.
RCB’s retention strategy for IPL 2025 is likely to revolve around a mix of experience and youth. The core group of Virat Kohli, Mohammed Siraj, and Rajat Patidar will provide stability, while players like Will Jacks and Anuj Rawat will bring fresh energy and potential to the squad. By utilizing the RTM card for Cameron Green, RCB can build a well-rounded team that balances batting firepower and bowling depth. As the deadline for retention approaches, all eyes will be on RCB to see how they approach the mega auction and what strategy they employ to finally secure their elusive IPL title.
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