Royal Challengers Bengaluru, team that always stands on the brink of winning the cup but fails to deliver when it matters most. Experts say there are many reasons for their failures, ranging from inconsistent batting to choking under pressure. However, one issue that has come under everyone’s radar is their inconsistent bowling. It’s fair to say that this problem began when they initially released Yuzvendra Chahal. Leg-spinner, who played for seven years at the IPL franchise, was released by the three-time IPL finalists in 2021, which shocked everyone. Now, Chahal is performing exceptionally well for Rajasthan Royals, already the highest wicket-taker in IPL history, with 48 wickets in 31 matches for the Royals over the last two seasons. His performances are commendable.
Looking back at RCB’s bowling lineup, if we consider IPL 2024, they had a bowling economy rate of 10.7, the worst in the league. Even in 2023, they conceded at a rate of 9.3 per over. If these trends don’t change, the future could be bleak. So, what options can they see in the IPL 2025 auction to steer clear of this dark path? Here’s a look at three bowlers they might target in IPL 2025.
Bowlers RCB can target in IPL mega auction
T Natarajan
With 57 matches of experience 61 wickets, a death-over specialist, and a decent economy of 8.16, what can RCB demand if Natarajan’s injury doesn’t turn around? There is no doubt that RCB should show interest in this South Star. There are several reasons why RCB might consider breaking the bank for him. Firstly, his death-over expertise is something RCB should look for, as the Bengaluru franchise has had poor performances in the final overs of the IPL. We saw how bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Alzarri Joseph struggled in death overs during IPL 2024. Natarajan provides sheer consistency in death overs, though his consistency in injury also have kept him out of the game. But if things go well, RCB should pursue him for his yorkers, slower balls, and other variations, which make it difficult for batsmen to predict his deliveries. These qualities could make him a potential wicket-taker for RCB.
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Nandre Burger
This name might shock a few or come as a surprise, but we have seen how, at a very young age, the South African rockstar made a name for himself. There could be an argument about why not pick Rabada if we are considering an RCB suit from Proteas land. However, the versatility he showed for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2024 makes him a compelling option. Just like the scenario with R Sai Kishore, he might not be picked by the franchise again, but it could be a golden opportunity for RCB to select him in the IPL 2025 mega auction. As a relatively young player with significant room to improve, he has proven himself in both bowling and lower-order batting. With 7 wickets in 6 games and an economy rate under 9, he could certainly be a valuable addition as a 7th or 8th position batter in the lineup. If RCB considers him, he could be a gold pick.
R Sai Kishore
Currently a Gujarat Titans player, R Sai Kishore needs no introduction. Despite getting limited opportunities in the IPL, he has played 10 matches to date and has consistently performed well. However, it’s possible that Gujarat Titans might release him ahead of IPL 2025 due to the limitations of the retention policy. If that happens, why shouldn’t RCB target this classic left-arm orthodox spinner?
Known for his accuracy and control, Kishore’s strengths allow him to build pressure on batters and take wickets. He is particularly effective in slow and low conditions, where his spin can be challenging for batters. To date, he has taken 13 wickets with a respectable economy rate of 8.32. His approach, which is more defensive, aligns with RCB’s current need to control runs. In this scenario, R Sai Kishore could be a valuable pick for RCB in IPL 2025.
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