Pandya, Bhuvi IN, Virat Kohli Captain; Padikkal OUT: RCB's Likely XI For IPL 2025 (Source: BCCI/IPL)
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will look to win their maiden title when they take the field in the IPL 2025. RCB had a decent IPL auction and compiled a balanced squad. RCB over the years focussed on batting heavy XI but the inclusion of players like Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar showed their willingness to change the approach. The team looks strong on paper, with quality batters and potent bowling at disposal. RCB would have ideally wanted a match-winning spinner in the squad, but they failed to get one at the auction. RCB will now have to depend on the likes of Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma to punch above their weight and shoulder the responsibility of the lead spinner. If they flourish, RCB can have a great season.
RCB's Likely XI For The IPL 2025
Virat Kohli will open the innings with Phil Salt. The England batter had a great run for KKR last year and played a significant role in the team's run to the title. RCB would hope that Salt repeat his heroics of IPL 2024 in the upcoming season. Rajat Patidar will play at three. Patidar was one of the three players retained by the RCB and the batter needs to repay the trust with performances. RCB roped in destructive Liam Livingstone for IPL 2025. Livingstone is not known for consistency but when on song, he is a match-winner. RCB would hope the top order lays a platform for him where he can cut loose from ball one.
Following Livingstone will be wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, who impressed one and all while playing for Punjab Kings in IPL 2024. Tim David will be the designated finisher of the team. David did a fair job for Mumbai Indians and RCB would rest hopes on him to finish matches. Krunal Pandya will be the all-rounder. Pandya is a valuable player who adds a lot of depth to the side. He is an economical batter and handy batter down the order.
Josh Hazlewood, Yash Yadal, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be the three seamers, while Suyash Sharma should be the specialist spinner. Devdutt Padikkal can play as an impact player.
RCB's Likely XI For IPL 2025: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Suyash Sharma, Devdutt Padikkal (Impact)
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