IPL 2025: 4 Capped, 1 Uncapped And 1 RTM; RCB's Retention Strategy Ahead Of Mega Auction
Kohli and Siraj will be among RCB's top retentions [Source: IPLT20.com]
On Saturday, the BCCI officially announced the IPL 2025 player retention rules ahead of the mega auction. The franchises have been given a deadline of October 31, before which they must submit their retention list to the IPL governing council.
As per the BCCI, the teams will be allowed to retain a maximum of six players. While they can keep upto five capped players, one uncapped player is a must for the ten participating sides. As the IPL retention rules have grabbed the limelight, the franchises have started internal dialogues regarding their potential combination heading to the auction table.
Regarding Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the Red Brigade will likely release several notable names. So, as fans are curious about RCB's possible auction strategy, here's an in-depth analysis to jot down their probable retention picks and potential RTM candidates.
4 Capped Retained Players Of RCB For IPL 2025
Virat Kohli
Legendary Indian batter Virat Kohli has been the backbone of RCB since joining the franchise. Even before leading India in international cricket, he was appointed as RCB's captain. The Indian stalwart has been the most successful batter in the tournament's history, being the only player to breach the 8000-run mark. Kohli enjoyed stellar success in the IPL 2024, amassing 741 runs at an average of 61.75 and a strike rate of 154.70. Therefore, considering his reputation and recent performance for the franchise, RCB will retain him as their first pick.
Rajat Patidar
Swashbuckling batter Rajat Patidar has been a vital cog in the RCB setup. The stylish right-handed batter has oozed his class for the franchise, scoring 799 runs at an average of 34.74 and a strike rate of 158.85. His ability to counter pace and spin effectively makes him a valuable asset. So, given that Patidar has performed admirably for them, the Royal Challengers will likely reward him with a lucrative deal, retaining him as their second capped player.
Will Jacks
The RCB think tank's decision to invest in Will Jacks was a masterstroke, as the English batter emerged as their wrecker-in-chief with the bat in the IPL 2024. A powerful striker of the ball, Jacks struck 230 runs, including a scintillating century, at an unbelievable strike rate of 175.57.
Besides opening the batting, Jacks can be an effective bowling option with his useful off-breaks. So, apart from replacing Du Plessis at the top, he can serve as RCB's batting all-rounder in the post-Maxwell era. Considering his all-round impact, it will be a sensible move from RCB to retain Jacks as their third capped player.
Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj has been the leader of RCB's bowling attack for quite a while now. The experienced Indian fast bowler can swing the ball up front and pose a serious threat to the opponent's top order. He can also be effective in the slog overs, courtesy of his ability to nail yorkers at will.
Siraj has earned the trust of the RCB management through his impressive performances over the years. Therefore, he is the front-runner for their fourth retention before the mega auction.
1 Uncapped Retained Player Of RCB For IPL 2025
Anuj Rawat
The dynamic keeper-batter showcased remarkable form in the recently concluded Delhi Premier League. Rawat also exhibited his hard-hitting prowess for RCB in the IPL this year despite getting limited opportunities. Considering the experienced Dinesh Karthik has retired from the IPL, the Bengaluru-based franchise might retain the promising Anuj Rawat as their sole uncapped player.
RCB's RTM Candidate: Cameron Green
Australia's prominent all-rounder Cameron Green joined RCB through the franchise's all-cash deal with Mumbai Indians for a whopping price of INR 17.50 Cr. However, this year's mega auction gives RCB a golden opportunity to bag Green at a significantly lower cost.
Considering his modest IPL 2024 performance and recent injury setback, Green's IPL stock might decrease before the auction. So, RCB can grab the chance with both hands and try to secure his services for a much lower price by using the Right To Match (RTM) card.