Key signatures at the auction

RCB made bold moves during the auction, securing top-level talent and plugging critical gaps in their lineup.

• 
  Liam Livingstone (₹8.75 crore)
• The dynamic England all-rounder was RCB’s first signing in the auction. Known for his explosive batting and handy spin bowling, Livingstone adds depth to RCB’s middle order and versatility in the bowling department.
• 
  Phil Salt (₹11.50 crore)
• England’s wicketkeeper-batsman was another highly valued acquisition. Salt brings aggressive top-order batting and exceptional skill behind the stumps, playing a vital role in the team.
• 
  Jitesh Sharma (₹11 crore)
• The young Indian wicketkeeper-batsman was a notable buy for RCB. His ability to accelerate in the middle overs and finish games makes him a perfect addition to the lineup.
• 
  Josh Hazlewood (₹12.5 crore)
• The Australian pacer, retained at a hefty price, bolsters RCB’s pace attack. Hazlewood’s consistency with the ball and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset.
• 
  Rasik Dar (₹6 crore)
• The promising Indian fast bowler was another strategic signing. Dar’s ability to swing the ball effectively adds variety to the bowling arsenal.
• 
  Suyyash Sharma (₹2.6 crore)
• The inclusion of Sharma, a talented spinner, strengthens RCB’s spin department, providing depth and flexibility to their bowling combinations.

Players Retained: Core of RCB

Ahead of the auction, RCB retained three key players:

• 
  Virat Kohli (21 crores): The face of RCB and their most experienced campaigner, Kohli remains central to their plans.
• 
  Rajat Patidar (₹11 crore): Patidar’s consistent performances in the previous season earned him a crucial place in the retained list.
• 
  Yash Dayal (₹5 crore): The left-arm pacer’s ability to swing the ball and take wickets at crucial times kept him smart.

Released players: Bold calls by management

RCB announced some high-profile names including Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammad Siraj. These decisions were likely driven by their strategy to free up funds and revamp the team with new talent.

Analysis: A strong squad for IPL 2025

RCB’s squad now has a mix of experience and youth. The inclusion of multi-dimensional players like Livingstone and Salt provides flexibility in both batting and bowling. Meanwhile, retaining Kohli ensures leadership stability.

challenges:

• The absence of Faf du Plessis and Maxwell could leave a void in experience.
• Finding the perfect team balance and using resources effectively will be crucial.

With their revamped squad, RCB look set to chase their elusive maiden IPL title. Fans will be hoping that this new approach will finally break the trophy drought.

Complete RCB squad for IPL 2025:

• 
  maintained: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal
• 
  bought: Liam Livingstone, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Rasik Dar, Suyesh Sharma