- For IPL 2025, all the teams have to submit the retention list to BCCI by 31 October. But, before that a veteran made a big disclosure on the players to be retained by RCB…
Source: Social Media
It has been 17 years since Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) was formed. Till now the dream of this team to win the title in IPL has not been fulfilled. Will RCB be able to fulfill this dream in the 18th season? But, before that the franchise will be eyeing the retention list. Before the mega auction, the team will try its best to retain its main players. But, before releasing the list, a former player who was part of RCB made a big revelation. The franchise can retain these players.
RCB will retain these 2 players in IPL 2025!
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) may look a bit changed in the 18th season of the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025). Because, before the mega auction, the franchise can retain a maximum of 5 players. In such a situation, RCB has to form a new team again in the big auction.
But before that, the big question is which players will the franchise retain. Parthiv Patel, who was a part of RCB in 2014, shared his opinion while talking on Jio TV. He made a big revelation and said that RCB can retain Virat Kohli and Mohammad Siraj. While it would like to acquire its players through RTM.
The franchise will also keep an eye on these players
Virat Kohli and Mohammad Siraj have topped the RCB retention list. Apart from these, who could be the other three players? If the report is to be believed, the team can plan on retaining Rajat Patidar and captain Faf du Plessis. While Anuj Rawat will be the best choice as an uncapped player. The team will try to make a good and strong team in the purse of Rs 120 crore.
Mega auction may happen in December this year
There are still a few months left for the start of the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025). But before that, fans are keeping an eye on the mega auction. Cricket lovers are eager to know how many crores their favorite players are sold for and which team can add them to their team. If the report is to be believed, the auction can be organized abroad in December this year. At present, no official statement has been made regarding the date of the auction.
As the excitement for IPL 2025 builds up, one of the tournament’s most popular teams, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), has made a massive announcement that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. In a bold move, RCB has decided to retain only two players ahead of the next season, including their long-time stalwart and former captain, Virat Kohli. This unexpected decision marks the beginning of a new era for the franchise, and fans are eager to see how this will shape the team’s fortunes in the upcoming season.
Let’s take a closer look at this big revelation, the two players being retained, and what this means for RCB as they prepare for a fresh start in IPL 2025.
1. Virat Kohli – The Eternal RCB Icon
The name Virat Kohli is synonymous with Royal Challengers Bangalore. Having been the face of the franchise for over a decade, Kohli’s commitment to RCB has been unwavering, despite the team’s inability to win the IPL title. His loyalty, leadership, and incredible performances over the years have made him a living legend in Bangalore and among RCB fans worldwide.
By choosing to retain Kohli, RCB is showing that they still value the experience and class he brings to the team. Though he stepped down as captain a couple of seasons ago, Kohli remains a key player and will continue to be the pillar around which RCB builds their squad for IPL 2025. His presence will also ensure that the team retains its strong fan base and spirit, even with other changes on the horizon.
2. The Second Retained Player: Faf du Plessis
The second player retained alongside Virat Kohli is none other than Faf du Plessis, the current captain of RCB. Faf, who took over the leadership mantle from Kohli, has impressed with his calm and strategic captaincy, along with his consistent performances at the top of the order. In the past two IPL seasons, du Plessis has proven to be a vital part of the team, leading from the front and guiding the team through challenging situations.
Retaining Faf du Plessis indicates that Royal Challengers Bangalore is prioritizing stability in their leadership and batting order. His experience, not just as a player but also as a leader, will be critical in shaping the team’s new direction. With Kohli and du Plessis anchoring the side, RCB has a solid foundation to rebuild around.
Why Such a Drastic Decision?
RCB’s decision to retain only two players—Kohli and du Plessis—may seem drastic, but it’s a calculated move aimed at rebooting the squad. Over the years, Royal Challengers Bangalore has been one of the most star-studded teams, with big names like AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, and Glenn Maxwell gracing their ranks. However, despite having several marquee players, the elusive IPL trophy has always slipped through their fingers.
The RCB management now seems intent on restructuring the team, possibly by letting go of high-profile players who have not delivered consistent performances and focusing on building a balanced, all-round squad that can compete at the highest level. By freeing up space in their roster and salary cap, they aim to scout new talent and invest in players who can perform under pressure and bring long-term success to the franchise.
RCB’s New Vision: Building for the Future
With only two players retained, Royal Challengers Bangalore will head into the IPL 2025 auction with a huge purse and a lot of flexibility. This provides them with an opportunity to make strategic buys and create a more dynamic squad. The team management will likely focus on filling key gaps that have troubled them in past seasons, particularly in areas like death bowling, middle-order stability, and a consistent spin attack.
Here’s what could be RCB’s approach to rebuilding their team:
- Targeting Young Talents: RCB could aim to invest in rising stars from domestic circuits and the U19 squad, building a core group of young players who can contribute for many seasons to come.
- Strengthening the Bowling Attack: While RCB’s batting has usually been their strength, their bowling attack has often lacked consistency, especially in crunch situations. Bringing in quality pacers and spinners could be a top priority.
- Reinforcing the Middle Order: A solid middle order has been a missing link for RCB in several seasons. They may look for dependable finishers who can complement their top-order strength.
The Fans’ Reaction: Mixed Emotions
Royal Challengers Bangalore fans have always been among the most passionate in the IPL, and this announcement is likely to evoke mixed reactions. While retaining Virat Kohli is a no-brainer and keeps the heart of RCB intact, the decision to revamp the rest of the squad is bound to raise questions. Some fans might be disappointed to see their favorite players go, while others may view this as the necessary overhaul that could finally break RCB’s title drought.
The team’s performance in IPL 2025 will ultimately determine how successful this move turns out to be. If RCB can strike the right balance in the auction and build a squad that complements the strengths of Kohli and du Plessis, they could be serious contenders for the title.
Conclusion: A New Beginning for RCB
As IPL 2025 approaches, Royal Challengers Bangalore is making a bold statement by retaining only two players: the legendary Virat Kohli and the charismatic Faf du Plessis. This decision signals the beginning of a new chapter for the franchise, one where they aim to rebuild, refocus, and ultimately break their title curse.
With two iconic leaders at the helm, RCB will now look to the IPL auction to assemble a fresh squad that can bring them the success their loyal fans have been dreaming of. While the road ahead is challenging, this bold move might just be what RCB needs to finally lift the coveted IPL trophy.
Will this new direction be the turning point in RCB’s history? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: IPL 2025 will be an exciting season for RCB and their fans, as they embark on this new journey with Kohli and du Plessis leading the way!