3 IPL Teams That Could Go All Out To Trade For RCB Star Tim David

Tim David [Source: @Cric_records45/X.com]

On July 26, Australian power-hitter Tim David made history by smashing the fastest-ever T20I century by an Australian. He reached the milestone in just 37 balls against the West Indies in St. Kitts, during a high-pressure chase of 215 runs.

Australia had been struggling at 87 for 4 when he walked in, but his blistering knock of 102 not out, laced with 11 sixes and 6 fours, turned the match around. His performance not only helped Australia seal the series 3-0 but also reaffirmed his reputation as one of the most explosive finishers in the game.

Notably, in IPL 2025, Tim David played 12 matches, scoring 187 runs at a strike rate of 185.15 and an average of 62.33, which clearly demonstrates his value in the death overs. Despite suffering an injury during the latter half of the season and missing the playoffs, he was instrumental in several key wins for RCB. 

This incredible display of power-hitting could spark serious interest among IPL teams, especially with the trading window open after the IPL final. Although Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) acquired Tim David for ₹3 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction and he delivered solid performances, the recent buzz might tempt other franchises to pursue him hard.

Tim David - IPL 2025 Stats (RCB)

Mumbai Indians

Mumbai Indians might be among the front-runners to try and get Tim David back. The Australia batter was previously with MI from 2022 to 2024, bought for a hefty sum of ₹8.25 crore. After the retirement of Kieron Pollard, MI has struggled to find a consistent finisher in the death overs. While Naman Dhir has shown flashes of brilliance, MI still lacks the late-innings explosiveness that Pollard once provided.

Given Tim David’s past association with the franchise and his ability to form a dangerous finishing duo with Hardik Pandya, Mumbai could be looking to bring him back, possibly through an all-cash deal, similar to how they reacquired Pandya from Gujarat Titans. David's previous performances for MI suggest he could easily fit back into the setup.

Notably, David has scored total 658 in 37 matches for MI at an average of 29.90 and an overall strike rate of around 174 indicate that a reunion might be logical for both sides, especially if MI sees him as the missing piece in their lower order.

Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals (RR) could also be interested in Tim David, as their middle order has lacked stability and power in important moments. Players like Shimron Hetmyer and Dhruv Jurel have not consistently delivered when it matters most. 

In the death overs, Rajasthan has often failed to finish games strongly, and someone like Tim David, who strikes at 191.0 in IPL overs 16 to 20, could be exactly what they need

If the rumour of Sanju Samson potentially joining CSK turns out to be true, RR might also need a reliable middle-order presence, and Tim David could offer both experience and finishing power. With RR desperate for a turnaround after missing the playoffs last season, they might be willing to make a large all-cash offer to lure David from RCB.

Death Overs Stats – Tim David in IPL 2025

This kind of firepower is rare and could be the difference between a win and a loss in tight finishes. If Rajasthan wants to address their finishing problem, Tim David might be high on their list.

Gujarat Titans

Gujarat Titans (GT), champions in their debut season, could be looking to strengthen their middle order after failing to make the IPL 2025 final. With Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill, and Jos Buttler delivering consistently at the top, GT looked solid on paper. However, the lower order, featuring players like Rahul Tewatia and Rashid Khan, failed to accelerate during chases and often collapsed under pressure.

This issue was glaring in their important match against CSK where GT, chasing 230, was bowled out for 147. Their middle order crumbled after the top three failed. If GT decides to go after a finisher like Tim David, it might be through a player-for-player trade, possibly involving Mohammed Siraj, who previously played for RCB.

Siraj, who was a loyal servant for RCB from 2018 to 2024, could be a tempting return for Bengaluru if they consider letting David go. For GT, adding a proven finisher could balance their lineup and make them title contenders again.

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