In order to end their drought, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have formed a strong fighting line of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Under the head teacher Andy Flowerthe franchise has bought effective products in the market and kept key players like Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar. With the right mix of international talent and emerging talent, RCB aims to be one of the most competitive teams in the league.
RCB's potential batting Lineup for IPL 2025: Andy Flower's strategy
In an interesting conversation with Sports Thank youRCB head coach Flower shared insights into the strategic planning of the franchise and how to prepare for the IPL 2025 season. When asked about his thoughts during the auction, Flower highlighted two areas that the team wants to strengthen. “There are two obvious areas that we felt needed to be addressed, and we've picked some strong hitters,” Flower said, pointing to a more straightforward way to increase the team's offensive strength and depth.
Although Flower didn't talk about RCB's exact plans, his statement hinted at a well-thought-out strategy aimed at capturing the elusive IPL title in 2025. With a mix of top talent and reliable talent, RCB looks to have built a squad capable of challenging the best in the competition.
Two openers to watch Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Flower elaborated on the team's selection process, which prioritized good batting skills that could win matches, especially at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium – a venue known for high-scoring matches. He said,
“If you look at the potential list, Phil Salt, who is known for his opening skills, could join Virat Kohli at the top,” the former cricketer added.
Kohli, booked for INR 21 crore, will also open the innings. Coming off a superb IPL 2024 season, where he won the Orange Cap with 741 runs, Kohli remains the cornerstone of RCB's batting line-up. His consistency, with six seasons of 400+ runs in the last seven editions of the IPL, shows his importance as an anchor and a pressure bowler.
Kohli's partner will be Salt, acquired for INR 11.50 crore after a superb IPL 2024 with KKR, where he scored 435 runs in 12 matches. Salt's aggressive approach complements Kohli's game, especially on the small confines of the Chinnaswamy Stadium, making him a a formidable opening pair. In addition, Salt will provide wicketkeeping gloves, adding to the team's versatility.
Also READ: IPL 2025: RCB's wish-list for big-hitters revealed
Central fixtures for IPL 2025
The teacher kept a special respect Rajat Patidar, one of the best domestic actors and RCB's revelation in previous IPL seasons. Flower also spoke of Liam Livingstone, a proven all-rounder who adds depth and versatility to the squad.
“Then bring down the order we have Rajat Patidar who was fantastic for us last season. He has done very well in domestic cricket and so has Liam Livingstone,” RCB head coach said.
Rajat Patidar, booked for INR 11 crore, is expected to bat at number 3. After consistent performances in the last two years of the IPL, with 333 and 395 runs in 2023 and 2024 respectively, Patidar's domestic form has been recognized again. His ability to pace makes him a great RCB skipper in the future.
At number 4, Liam Livingstone, bought for INR 8.75 crore, brings power and versatility. Although his last two IPL seasons were tough, his ability to clear the ropes and help with spin bowling made him a valuable asset. His recent strong form in international cricket will be very important for RCB.
Down the middle of a Bengaluru-based franchise
Explaining the importance of finishing strong, Flower highlighted the inclusion of Jitesh Sharma, a young wicketkeeper-batsman known for his finishing skills and resilience under pressure. “Jitesh Sharma is an exciting young wicketkeeper-batsman who has been a great addition to our community and brings joy to our side,” the 56-year-old explained.
Another important element in the middle order is Tim David, whose reputation as a finisher leads him. “Tim's success with Australia and in T20 tournaments around the world shows his ability to handle the most difficult situations, so the strength, especially in Chinnaswamy's most successful matches, makes him the right fit in our opinion,” He finished like that.
Jitesh , earned with INR 11 crore, can hit at number 5. Known for his finishing skills, Sharma's performances in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophywhere he scored at a risk of 225.00, making him a top middle batsman.
Tim, restocked for INR 3 crore, is set to provide firepower at No. His experience with RCB, having started again with the franchise in 2021, adds to the margin.