Published By: Sanchari Das

IPL 2025: RCB’s Roadmap to Success Through Smart Retentions

RCB faces critical decisions ahead of the IPL 2025 auction

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had a mixed campaign in IPL 2024. While the first half was abysmal, they rebounded in the second half to secure a playoff spot. The team showed resilience but fell short in the Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals. As the IPL 2025 mega auction approaches, RCB is aiming to rebuild and shake off the trophy drought. A revamped core could help them make a fresh start, with careful retention decisions setting the stage for success.

The case for full core retention

RCB might choose to retain their entire core, which includes Virat Kohli, Will Jacks, Cameron Green, Mohammed Siraj, Rajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal. Kohli remains the obvious retention choice, while Green and Jacks provide versatility in the all-rounder slots. Patidar’s prowess against spin is invaluable, and Siraj’s ability to bowl across phases ensures his importance. Yash Dayal, despite limited opportunities, adds balance as an uncapped seamer. This strategy allows RCB to maintain a strong core while securing the backbone of their batting and bowling departments.

Taking a bold approach with Kohli alone

Alternatively, RCB could choose a bolder strategy by retaining only Virat Kohli. This would give them a massive purse for the auction, allowing them to target key players at more favourable prices. Siraj’s recent form has raised doubts about his ₹14 crore price tag, and Green’s back injury could limit his availability. Jacks, though promising, might be overvalued at ₹14 crore. By focusing solely on Kohli, RCB could then use their Right to Match (RTM) cards to potentially bring back key players at a reduced cost.

A balanced option

A middle-ground approach would be retaining Kohli, Green, and Rajat Patidar. Kohli is indispensable, Green brings invaluable skills as a pace-bowling all-rounder, and Patidar complements the lineup as a powerful spin hitter. If Green’s injury raises concerns, RCB could swap him for Jacks. While Siraj’s recent performances have been inconsistent, his auction value may fluctuate, making him less of a priority. This strategy focuses on maintaining a balance between experience, all-round abilities, and a solid middle-order option in Patidar.

Key retentions: Kohli, Maxwell, and Siraj

Virat Kohli leads the list of potential retentions, valued at ₹18 crore. Despite stepping down from T20 internationals, he remains RCB’s pillar. Mohammed Siraj, retained for ₹14 crore, has evolved into a reliable pacer, even if his 2024 form dipped slightly. Glenn Maxwell, another retention at ₹14 crore, is a destructive middle-order player who can step in as a finisher, especially with Dinesh Karthik’s retirement. Maxwell’s versatility with both bat and ball makes him vital to RCB’s plans.

Akash Deep’s rise

Among the uncapped players, Akash Deep is one of the most promising names RCB could retain. The pacer, who impressed in domestic cricket and earned his Test call-up for India, could be a valuable asset. His IPL numbers may not be extraordinary, with just seven wickets from nine games, but his potential makes him worth the ₹11 crore retention. His growth as a bowler could provide RCB with a dependable option in both the powerplay and death overs.

RTM for Faf du Plessis?

RCB faces a dilemma regarding skipper Faf du Plessis. The South African, who took over from Kohli in 2022, has been consistent with the bat but hasn’t delivered as a captain. Spending big on him might not be wise, but the Right to Match (RTM) card could be RCB’s solution. Retaining him via RTM would allow the franchise to secure his services without breaking the bank while still allowing flexibility to strengthen other areas of the team.

Who RCB might let go?

RCB could part ways with players like Alzarri Joseph and Cameron Green. Joseph didn’t live up to expectations in 2024, and Green’s back injury poses a serious risk for the upcoming season. However, if his price drops, RCB might still eye Will Jacks in the auction. With the potential for a budget rebuild, RCB will have to be strategic in ensuring they balance youth, experience, and match-winning ability while freeing up enough funds for a strong auction push.