of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced challenges in their pursuit Indian Premier League (IPL) title during the 2024 season, but showed remarkable resilience in turning their fortunes around. Under the direction of the captain Faf du PlessisRCB initially struggled, losing seven of their first eight matches. However, they made an impressive comeback, securing a playoff spot by winning six straight games. Unfortunately, their playoff run ended in disappointment when they lost to Rajasthan Royals (RR) by four wickets in the Eliminator at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With the mega auction on the horizon, RCB must carefully strategize their retention list.
Key conservation guidelines for IPL cycle 2025-27
The IPL Governing Council has unveiled the player regulations for the upcoming 2025-2027 cycle, outlining the essential retention guidelines for the franchise. Teams may retain a maximum of six players from their 2024 squads, either through outright retention or the RTM option. Participation players are limited to five – either Indian or overseas – while teams can carry up to two uncapped players.
An intriguing aspect of the new regulations is the reinstatement of the uncovered rule after three years. Under this rule, an Indian participating player who has not participated in international cricket for the last five calendar years or does not have a central contract with the BCCI will be classified as uncapped. This rule was previously in place from 2008 to 2021 before being lifted.
With these new dynamics in play, RCB is likely to opt to retain three players while using three RTM cards during the IPL 2025 mega auction scheduled for later this year, either in November or December. The deadline for teams to announce their retention is October 31, 2024, putting added pressure on the franchise to make timely and strategic decisions about their future lineup.
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6 Players RCB Can Retain Ahead of Mega Auction:
1. Virat Kohli: A non-negotiable hold
Virat Kohli remains the most valuable player for RCB making him a guaranteed retention pick. As the all-time leading run-scorer in IPL history, he has amassed over 8,000 runs at an impressive average of 38.67 and a strike rate of 131.97. During the IPL 2024 season, Kohli demonstrated his class by scoring 741 runs in 15 matches at an average of 61.75 with an explosive strike rate of 154.69.
Despite stepping away from T20 internationals, his vast experience and performance in the IPL make him irreplaceable for RCB. His ability to anchor the innings while accelerating as needed is crucial to the team’s batting depth. Furthermore, Kohli’s leadership qualities and widespread popularity cement his importance within the franchise. Keeping him will definitely be one of the simplest yet most beneficial decisions for RCB.
2. Cameron Green: A valuable all-rounder
Cameron Green enjoyed a commendable season with RCB in IPL 2024, positioning him as a strong retention candidate. In 13 matches, he scored 255 runs at a strike rate of 143.26 while contributing with the ball by taking 10 wickets. His versatility enables him to fulfill multiple roles in the squad, making him an invaluable asset. Although he faced competition from Glenn Maxwell for a holdover spot, Green’s overall performance and upside potential may give him the upper hand. His capacity to influence the innings with bat and ball is vital to RCB’s balance. Green’s youthful energy could inject a new dynamic into the team’s performance. Thus, keeping him would be a strategic move for the franchise that aims to build a competitive team for the future.
3. Akash Deep: A Rising Star
Akash Deep has made significant strides in his performance for India in recent times, establishing himself as a promising player worth keeping. His fast bowling combined with a keen ability to read the game allows him to be an effective batsman for the team. Deep’s consistency and improvement throughout the season has been commendable and his retention would provide RCB with a new and dynamic option in their bowling arsenal. His development potential is also promising, making him a long-term strategic hold for the franchise.
4. Mohammed Siraj: A bowling pin
Muhammad Siraj has cemented his position as a key figure in RCB’s bowling attack, making him a prime candidate for retention ahead of IPL 2025. The experienced pacer claimed 15 wickets in 14 matches during IPL 2024, maintaining an average of 33.07. His experience in high-pressure situations enables him to perform effectively, often delivering crucial breakthroughs for his team.
Siraj’s ability to play in different phases of the game, combined with his ability to take wickets, makes him an irreplaceable asset. During his IPL career, he has played 93 matches, securing 93 wickets at a commendable economy rate of 8.65. RCB can depend on him to lead the bowling unit and mentor the younger players in the squad. Retaining Siraj would provide RCB with the stability and expertise needed to compete fiercely in the coming season.
5. Rajat Patidar: A key middle order option
Patidar rajasThe IPL’s journey has been marked by growth and consistency, making it a strong candidate for RCB to retain. After a slow start to IPL 2024, he bounced back impressively, scoring 395 runs in 15 matches at a strike rate of 177.13. His ability to deliver crucial plays in high-stakes situations was vital to RCB’s playoff qualification. Known for his aggressive batting style, Patidar can stabilize the middle order, which is crucial to RCB’s batting strategy. He has already proven his worth with an outstanding performance of 112* in the 2022 season and his consistency has cemented his reputation. With five half-centuries in IPL 2024, he has shown that he can perform when it matters most. Retaining Patidar ensures that RCB have a reliable and dynamic middle-order option for the future.
6. Yash Dayal: An uncapped promising talent
Yash Dayal has emerged as a surprise but key player for RCB, making him a strong choice for retention as an uncapped player. In IPL 2024, Dayal claimed 15 wickets in 14 matches, showing his ability to perform under pressure, including a key dismissal of MS Dhoni in a must win match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Initially criticized for his high auction price, Dayal proved his doubters wrong with consistent performances throughout the season.
His left-arm pace and poise in crucial situations have established him as a valuable member of the bowling unit. Furthermore, his selection in the Indian squad for the Test series against Bangladesh highlights his growing reputation and potential for further growth. Retaining Dayal would not only strengthen RCB’s bowling attack but also signify their commitment to nurturing young talent for the future.
