Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) entered the IPL 2025 Mega Auction with a massive purse of INR 83 crore, the second-highest among all franchises. While the team showed initial interest in big names, including Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul, they opted for a measured approach, focusing on strengthening their Indian core. RCB ultimately let go of the bidding war for Rahul, who joined Delhi Capitals for INR 10.75 crore.

RCB prioritizes uncapped Indian talent

On IPL Auction Day 1, RCB’s strategy revolved around signing uncapped talent, including bowlers like Rasikh Dar Salam, and Suyash Sharma. Their inclusion addressed long-standing gaps in their bowling arsenal, signaling a step towards building a versatile attack. 

With a remaining purse of INR 30.65 crore heading into Day 2, RCB shifted their focus to securing all-rounders and experienced overseas players. Former Mumbai Indians player Tim David was a standout acquisition for just INR 3 crore, adding explosive firepower to their middle order.

RCB breaks bank to buy Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Hazlewood

Meanwhile, seasoned pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar joined the squad, bolstering the pace department with his expertise in both the powerplay and death overs. There was a fierce battle to acquire the services of the experienced bowler, however, in the end there was only one winner; RCB: who bought him for 10.75 crores.

Another additoin to their bowling prowess was that of Josh Hazlewood. The bowler has been a thorn in the batter’s side for the longest time in IPL. Despite bowling in the powerplays, the player has picked 35 wickets at an economy of 8. Hence, the 12.50 crores which RCB payed for the players are all but worth it.

After the release of former skipper Faf du Plessis, and considering the dynamic squad, it will be interesting to see whom the Royal Challengers Bengaluru will announce their skipper for the upcoming 18th season of the Indian Premier League. 

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Full Squad for IPL 2025

Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yash Dayal, Liam Livingstone (Rs. 8.75 crore), Phil Salt (Rs. 11.50 crore), Jitesh Sharma (Rs. 11 crore), Josh Hazlewood (Rs. 12.50 crore), Rasikh Dar (Rs. 6 crore), Suyash Sharma (Rs. 2.60 crore), Krunal Pandya (Rs. 5.75 crore), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Rs. 10.75 crore), Swapnil Singh (Rs. 50 lakh), Tim David (Rs. 3 crore), Romario Shepherd (Rs. 1.50 crore), Nuwan Thushara (Rs. 1.60 crore), Manoj Bhandage (Rs. 30 lakh), Jacob Bethell (Rs. 2.60 crore), Devdutt Padikkal (Rs. 2 crore), Swastik Chhikara (Rs. 30 lakh), Lungi Ngidi (Rs. 1 crore), Abhinandan Singh (Rs. 30 lakh), Mohit Rathee (Rs. 30 lakh).

RCB Reunites Krunal Pandya and Swapnil Singh at IPL 2025 Auction Amid Past Feud