RCB announced their retained players ahead of the IPL auction 2025. They retained the star cricketer Virat Kohli for a price of INR 21 crores. Likewise, the 3-time finalists retained Rajat Patidar and Yash Dayal for INR 11 crores and 4 crores respectively. They now have three RTM cards and a purse of 84 crores left. They head to the auction with a lot to purchase.
The biggest purchase they have would be to get someone who can lead them. Reports have emerged on Virat willing to be the skipper again. However, since nothing is confirmed, and as a matter of thinking ahead in the future, RCB would be looking for players with leadership qualities. They could possibly break the bank for such players.
Here are the three players who could potentially be targeted by RCB as captaincy options at the IPL auction 2024
3. Faf Du Plessis
Faf Du Plessis was not retained by RCB. Given the concern with his age and consistency, it was probably a good decision. The think tank might have thought of buying him back in the auction, where he might be available at a lower price rather than retaining him at a higher price. In such a case, RCB going after him might not be a bad option.
The star player was brilliant for RCB in the 2023 season. Even in the 2024 season, he had a good second half. Age is probably the only concern which might force RCB to look at different options. If the management thinks at Faf as potentially someone who could lead them for a season or two, it might not be a bad investment considering his form for RCB.
2. Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant was released by DC for the first time since he was picked in 2015. Reports claim that things didn’t work out well between the franchise owners and the player. It could mean that DC might not be willing to go after him or even use their RTM card on. Pant is likely to be one of the costliest buys in the auction given what he brings to table.
Captaincy might not just be the only reason for RCB to go after him. They need a replacement for Dinesh Karthik, the WK batter. Pant is very fine as a WK in LOIs. His captaincy is an added advantage. Most importantly, RCB would want his explosive batting in the middle order. He would be highly useful as a package and can also be the future of RCB.
1. KL Rahul
KL Rahul might be the frontrunner in this regard. Things didn’t work out well between the star player and the LSG management. KL returning home is a big possibility considering it’s a win-win situation for all sides. KL might himself be wishing to be a part of the franchise which is based in his home state. The fans wish to see a local player lead them.
The management needs someone who can be their face after Virat. While Rahul might not be as young to be RCB’s future, he can certainly be their present. It might be very important for Rahul considering he has not been in the scheme of things in T20Is for more than 2 years. RCB and the nature of Chinnaswamy wicket might bring the aggressive batter in Rahul.
Disclaimer: This exclusive news is based on the author’s insights, analysis, and intuition. While reviewing this information, consider the points discussed and form your own conclusions.