Building a balanced and competitive team

Key signings at the auction

RCB made bold moves during the auction, securing top talent and addressing key gaps in their line-up.

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  Liam Livingstone (INR 8.75 Crores)
• The dynamic English all-rounder was RCB's first signing in the auction. Known for his explosive batting and practical bowling spin, Livingstone adds depth to RCB's middle order and versatility in the bowling department.
• 
  Phil Salt (INR 11.50 Crores)
• The England wicketkeeper-batter was another high-value acquisition. Salt brings aggressive top-order batting and exceptional skills behind the stumps, filling a vital role in the team.
• 
  Jitesh Sharma (11 crore INR)
• The young Indian wicketkeeper-batter was a significant buy for RCB. His ability to accelerate in the middle overs and finish games makes him a perfect addition to the lineup.
• 
  Josh Hazlewood (INR 12.5 crore)
• The Australian pacer, retained at a high price, boosts RCB's pace attack. Hazlewood's consistency with the ball and ability to perform in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset.
• 
  Rasikh Dar (INR 6 crore)
• The promising Indian pacer was another strategic signing. Dar's ability to swing the ball effectively adds variety to the bowling arsenal.
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  Suyash Sharma (INR 2.6 crore)
• A talented spinner, Sharma's inclusion strengthens RCB's spin department, providing depth and flexibility to their bowling combinations.

Retained players: RCB's core

Ahead of the auction, RCB retained three key players:

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  Virat Kohli (INR 21 crore): The face of RCB and their most experienced campaigner, Kohli remains central to their plans.
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  Rajat Patidar (11 crore INR): Patidar's consistent performances in the previous seasons earned him a key spot in the retained list.
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  Yash Dayal (INR 5 crore): The left-arm pacer's ability to swing the ball and pick wickets at crucial times made him a smart retention.

Released Players: Bold calls from Management

RCB have released some high profile names including Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj. These decisions were likely driven by their strategy to free up funds and rebuild with that new talent.

Analysis: Strong Squad for IPL 2025

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

Challenges:

• The absence of Faf du Plessis and Maxwell could leave a gap in experience.
• Finding the perfect team balance and efficient use of resources will be critical.

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

RCB Complete Squad for IPL 2025:

• 
  Withheld: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal
• 
  Purchased: Liam Livingstone, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma