Can RCB Finally Lift the IPL Trophy?
With just two weeks to go before the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season kicks off, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is once again in the spotlight. Despite having a star-studded squad over the years, the team has yet to win its maiden IPL title. This has sparked discussions and debates, including an interesting exchange between two former Pakistan cricketers regarding RCB’s chances this season.
Pakistan Cricketers Weigh in on RCB’s Title Chances
During a recent discussion on the ‘Haarna Mana Hai’ show by Geo News, former Pakistan cricketers Rashid Latif and Ahmed Shehzad shared their thoughts on RCB’s prospects. Shehzad made an interesting suggestion, stating that RCB could finally win the IPL if they managed to bring in Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir.
“If Amir plays for RCB, they could win the IPL title,” Shehzad claimed.
Latif, however, shut down the idea with a sharp response:
“As long as MS Dhoni is there in CSK (Chennai Super Kings), don’t even think RCB can touch the IPL trophy.”
While the banter was lighthearted, it is important to note that Pakistani players are currently barred from participating in the IPL, making Amir’s inclusion an impossible scenario.
RCB’s Rollercoaster Journey in IPL 2024
RCB had a dramatic IPL 2024 season. Struggling for most of the tournament and sitting at the bottom of the table, they pulled off an incredible six-match winning streak to secure a playoff spot. Despite their efforts, they once again fell short of winning the title.
With renewed determination, RCB is entering IPL 2025 with big changes, hoping this will finally be their year.
A New Captain at the Helm
One of the biggest shake-ups in the RCB squad this season is their leadership change. The franchise decided not to retain former captain Faf du Plessis and instead handed the captaincy to Rajat Patidar. The 31-year-old batter will now have the responsibility of leading the team in its quest for its maiden title.
Before the IPL 2025 mega auction, RCB retained only three players:
- Virat Kohli – The team’s biggest icon and former captain
- Rajat Patidar – Their newly appointed leader
- Yash Dayal – A promising pacer
With a revamped squad and a new strategy, RCB aims to break their title drought.
RCB’s Major Signings at the Mega Auction
At the IPL 2025 auction, RCB made some bold moves to strengthen their lineup. Their most expensive buy was Australian speedster Josh Hazlewood, who was acquired for ₹12.50 crore. Other notable purchases include:
- Phil Salt (₹11.5 crore) – A dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman
- Jitesh Sharma (₹11 crore) – Another aggressive batter
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar (₹10.75 crore) – An experienced Indian pacer
These signings indicate RCB’s intent to build a well-balanced squad with a mix of firepower and experience.
RCB’s Opening Match and Key Fixtures
RCB will kickstart their IPL 2025 campaign in a high-voltage clash against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. This match will set the tone for the season, with fans eagerly waiting to see if RCB can begin their journey on a winning note.
Being one of only three teams to have played in every IPL season without winning the title, the pressure is mounting on RCB to finally claim the trophy in 2025.
Will 2025 Be RCB’s Year?
RCB has always been a team that garners immense fan support, thanks to its exciting players and thrilling matches. However, their inability to cross the final hurdle remains a major talking point. With a new captain, a fresh squad, and strong momentum from their IPL 2024 resurgence, could this be the year RCB finally lifts the IPL trophy?(cricket betting sites)