The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have their own unique take on the well-known adage, “What goes around comes around.” They propagate their catchphrase, “E Saala Cup Namde,” throughout the nation, and it resurfaces season after season. Just like the Delhi Capitals (DC) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), RCB are one of the most unsuccessful franchise in the IPL history. However, in terms of fan base, they are up there unmatched.
RCB have once again attempted to reassemble the team, keeping only three members, as they always do. Naturally, Virat Kohli is the most expensive Indian at the IPL 2025 retention, costing an incredible ₹21 crore. Additionally, RCB has expressed faith in Yash Dayal (₹5 crore) and Rajat Patidar (₹11 crore). This has left them with a hefty ₹83 crore left in the bank, making them the franchise after PBKS, who of course have ₹110.50cr. With the mega auction slated to happen on November 24-25, we have made a “Dream XI” for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Below, we have put the best possible combination that the RCB could pick at the auction. While we know that no one can predict what happens at an IPL auction, it’s important to note that this is a purely speculative exercise. On that note, let’s hop into it!
RCB. 1) Virat Kohli
Who else but Virat Kohli to start with. This will be his 18th season at the franchise and no other player has played for a single franchise since IPL’s inception. Talk about consistency! The lad has done it all at the franchise apart from winning the coveted title. While there are rumours that he might captain RCB again but that’s a matter to discuss after the IPL auction gets over. For RCB, Kohli has hammered 8,428 runs at an average of 38.66 across 258 innings.
RCB. 2) KL Rahul
It’s quite clear that majority of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans want to see KL Rahul back in the team for IPL 2025. The Karnataka batter-keeper will go under the hammer after he was released by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the auction. KL Rahul, who spent his initial days in IPL with RCB, also expressed his interest to return to the franchise. Moreover, RCB might be looking for a captain and KL Rahul might a great fit at his “home”. If he gets his T20 game right, Rahul and Kohli might be the most consistent opening duos in IPL cricket.
RCB. 3) Will Jacks
Will Jacks showed that he can dominate the wrecking ball that IPL is. The hard-hitting batter can not only do same damage as what an overseas batter does but can even roll his arm over. With his experience of playing all over the world, Jacks can be a threatening option at number three. After 42 T20s, Jacks has made 989 runs at an immaculate strike rate of 164.29. For RCB, Jacks made 230 runs at a superb SR of 175.57. He even hit a century against a great bowling lineup of Gujarat Titans.
RCB. 4) Rajat Patidar
Rajat Patidar has been entrusted with a huge role as he has been retained for Rs 11 crore, making him the second-top retention. It is deserving because the Indian international has all the potential in him to shine. Patidar had an impressive season in the last IPL, scoring 395 runs in 15 matches at a strike rate of 177.13, including five half-centuries. Since his debut in 2021, Patidar has played 27 matches, accumulating 799 runs at a strike rate of 158.85. He is an attacking number four option.
RCB. 5) Marcus Stoinis
Marcus Stoinis brings massive stability to any side any RCB would love to have someone like him. Stoinis was released by LSG ahead of this auction and RCB would be desperate to have Stoinis back. Stoinis played the IPL 2019 with the Bengaluru franchises and did superbly as he averaged over 52 and smashed 211 runs. Overall, he has 5966 T20 runs and even has 152 wickets to his name.
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RCB. 6) David Miller
A proven match-winner, David Miller’s ability to finish games strongly is unparalleled. His vast experience and big-hitting prowess make him a valuable addition to the RCB squad and the South African can do something that most of the RCB finishers couldn’t do. This year, he has already played close to 40 T20s, making 846 runs at a SR close to 140.
RCB. 7) Jitesh Sharma
Adding another wicket-keeper option is Jitesh Sharma, who can replicate what Dinesh Karthik, now RCB’s batting coach, did at the franchise. Jitesh hasn’t had a great 2024 but his stellar performances in 2022 and 2023 showcase how truly capable he is. The current Indian backup wicket-keeper made 458 and 480 runs at a SR of 169.00 and 154.34 in T20s in 2022 and 2023, respectively. He can come up with crucial cameos to power RCB to strong finish with the bat.
RCB. 8) Mohammed Shami
Now comes a man who will spearhead the bowling attack! Mohammed Shami made his much-awaited return to competitive cricket after 360 days. By the time IPL 2025 kicks in, he will be recovered fully (hopefully) and will continue to take wickets. Shami has been a much better T20 bowler in recent times and could create huge impact with other pacers included in the XI.
RCB. 9) Yuzvendra Chahal
Apart from KL Rahul, fancy another RCB return? Yuzvendra Chahal would get all the love and appreciation he deserves if he comes back to RCB. After all, he made his career at this franchise, for whom he took 139 wickets at an incredible economy rate of 7.58 in 112 innings. He is the leading wicket-taker of the league, with 205 wickets at an incredible strike rate and economy rate of 17.17 and 7.84. Although he is touted for big bucks at IPL 2025 auction, RCB have all the money to get him.
RCB. 10) Mohammed Siraj
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) should prioritize getting back Mohammed Siraj, a key player in their bowling attack. His impressive performance at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, especially his ability to control the death overs, makes him a valuable asset. While other bowlers struggle on this challenging pitch, Siraj has consistently delivered, maintaining a decent economy rate of 8.92 (IPL 2024) and taking wickets (26 wickets at M Chinnaswamy Stadium). Given his popularity among Bangalore fans and RCB’s substantial purse, it’s crucial for the team to utilize their Right to Match card to secure Siraj’s services.
RCB. 11) Yash Dayal
Similar to Rajat Patidar, RCB have also showed their trust on Yash Dayal, who has been retained as an uncapped player for Rs 5 crore. Dayal led RCB’s bowling attack in IPL 2024, taking 15 wickets in 14 matches at an economy rate of 9.15. He will be the only left-arm option in the team, making him a genuine wicket-taking option.
| No. | Player Name | Role |
| 1 | Virat Kohli | Batsman |
| 2 | KL Rahul | Batsman |
| 3 | Will Jacks | All-rounder (Overseas) |
| 4 | Rajat Patidar | Batsman |
| 5 | Marcus Stoinis | All-rounder (Overseas) |
| 6 | David Miller | Batsman (Overseas) |
| 7 | Jitesh Sharma | Wicketkeeper |
| 8 | Mohammed Shami | Bowler |
| 9 | Yuzvendra Chahal | Bowler |
| 10 | Mohammed Siraj | Bowler |
| 11 | Yash Dayal | Bowler |
Impact Player: Maheesh Theekshana/ Dewald Brevis (because only 3 overseas players selected)
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