Why Jitesh Sharma? 3 Wicketkeepers RCB Could Have Targeted For IPL 2025

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Jitesh Sharma [Source: @PunjabKingsIPL/x.com]Jitesh Sharma [Source: @PunjabKingsIPL/x.com]

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been one of the most followed teams in the IPL. Despite their popularity, they have mostly lost the plot on the auction table. However, in IPL 2025 auction they seemed a much sorted unit. RCB tried to solve the problems that have been haunting them for the past 17 years. 

Even though RCB did a great job in acquiring the perfectly suited player for different roles, there was one purchase that surprised the fans. The management spent INR 11 Cr for Jitesh Sharma. Looking at some of the players that went to the other franchises, there might be a few better options they could have went for. 

First of all let us examine why RCB bought Jitesh Sharma - 

Why RCB Bought Jitesh Sharma?

Over the years, we have seen that RCB had struggled because of a top heavy batting. After the fall of the first few wickets, they have often failed to carry on the momentum. Thus a player like Jitesh Sharma adds to the depth and flexibility to the batting line-up. The young wicket-keeper batter has proven his hitting power in the IPL providing his previous franchise with powerful finishes. Being an Indian lower-order batter who can keep wickets too, Jitesh Sharma solved many problems at one go for RCB. 

However, despite all things he brings on the table, here are three players that would have been a better choice for the franchise.

3. Ishan Kishan

Ishan Kishan for MI [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/x.com]Ishan Kishan for MI [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/x.com]

The Indian keeper batter was sold for INR 11.25 Cr to SRH. While, Jitesh Sharma cost RCB INR 11 Cr, they could have spent INR 25 Lakhs more and bought Ishan Kishan. This Indian batter could have been a powerful influence for them at the top of the order. They could have then gone for an overseas batter like, Will Jacks in the middle-order instead of Phil Salt, whom they have selected as an opener.

2. Josh Inglis

Josh Inglis for Australia [Source: @thecricketmen/x.com]Josh Inglis for Australia [Source: @thecricketmen/x.com]

The Australian batter could have been the like to like replacement of Jitesh Sharma. The fact that Josh Inglis was sold for INR 2.60 Cr to Punjab Kings indicates that he could have been cheaper for RCB. He would have also provided stability and dynamism to the RCB batting line-up during the tournament.

1. KL Rahul

KL Rahul in IPL [Source: @Jughead47/x.com]KL Rahul in IPL [Source: @Jughead47/x.com]

The experienced Indian wicket-keeper batter was sold for INR 14 Cr to the Delhi Capitals. Yes, KL Rahul would have cost RCB INR 3 Cr more. But in KL Rahul they would have got a tested performer at the top of the order and consistent run-scorer. The fact that he has already been a part of the RCB set up makes him an even better candidate. Also, he has a great understanding with Kohli as batting partner and the duo could have been a great opening pair for RCB during IPL 2025.