Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who had a mixed last season, as they were completely miserable in their first few games, and the team failed to make any impact and lost seven out of eight matches initially. However, things changed quickly. From standout batting performances to impressive bowling, everything started to fall into place, and the team managed to reach the Eliminator. Although they lost the game, but their turnaround was praised by many.
Now that IPL 2025 talks are everywhere, with only a weeks days left for the auction, retention discussions are in full swing. Last season, many RCB players came in and did a wonderful job, and captain Faf du Plessis was one of them. With his giant strokes and tactful captaincy, he came into the spotlight. Faf’s entry to RCB happened in 2022 when this veteran batter from South Africa was bought by the team for INR 7 crore at the last Mega Auction.
And soon after Virat hung up his captaincy boots, Faf took over and led the team to two playoffs, one in 2022 and then in the 2024 edition. However, now his retention in the team looks difficult, especially due to his age. RCB, who desperately need an IPL trophy, might lean towards younger names or invest in someone who still has a few more years of cricket left. But who are the players that can replace Faf as an opener if this legendary South African batter is not retained? See three top-quality openers RCB may target if Faf du Plessis is released by the franchise
KL Rahul
The first name already grabbing attention is KL Rahul, whose retention by LSG looks doubtful. Since LSG’s inception in IPL 2022, Rahul has been leading the team. He was the highest scorer in 2022, with 616 runs at an average of 51.33, including two centuries, and led the team to the playoffs in 2022. In 2023 as well although he got injured midway, but LSG still reached the playoffs. However, 2024 didn’t go as planned, with the team finishing seventh and Rahul struggling as a batter.
There is now speculation about whether Rahul could return to RCB, where his IPL journey began. These rumours gained momentum after LSG’s 10-wicket loss to SRH, when an animated conversation between LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka and KL Rahul was spotted. There are rumours that this star batter may get released by LSG, and RCB could bid for him if he goes under the hammer, since the trade option is unavailable. If he gets released, he will need to go to the mega auction, and RCB may look to bring him back. And not to forget the stylish Karnataka player had a stellar record with the Bengaluru franchise during his stint from 2013 to 2016.
Ishan Kishan
Another name that may grab the attention of RCB management is Ishan Kishan. Given the Mumbai Indians’ scenario, where they already have superstar names which they will look to retain first and chances are they may release Ishan Kishan, although nothing is confirmed yet. There is no question about Ishan’s ability as a batter and as a keeper, but if MI releases him, there is a strong chance that RCB management will bid for him. This left-handed aggressive batter provides fast starts, especially in the first six overs, he has been dangerous as a batter and can potentially change the game, which RCB needs. Also, since Dinesh Karthik is now retired, Ishan can also provide wicketkeeping options.
Quinton de Kock
Will LSG release Quinton de Kock? Although the chances are less likely, if KL Rahul is not retained, LSG will need a new captain, and since Quinton has been outstanding for them, they may see him as a future captain. However, if LSG looks to revamp everything and invest in new players, then there is a chance they could release Quinton de Kock. In that scenario, de Kock could attract interest from RCB at the auction table. With similar attributes to KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan, de Kock has been wonderful with the bat in the IPL and is known for providing fast starts. Also understands the requirements of the team. As one of the most experienced players, this South African big name could join RCB and replace his former international partner, Faf du Plessis.
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