The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are preparing for IPL 2025 with significant changes to their squad following the recent mega auction held in Jeddah. As fans eagerly anticipate the new season, a key question remains: Who will captain RCB in 2025?
Virat Kohli is widely expected to return as the captain of RCB for the 2025 season. Kohli previously led the team from 2013 to 2021 and is considered a pivotal figure in RCB’s history.
His leadership was temporarily handed over to Faf du Plessis, who has now been released by the franchise, paving the way for Kohli’s potential reinstatement as captain.
RCB’s IPL 2025 Auction Highlights
During the IPL 2025 auction, RCB made several signings to enhance their squad:
- Liam Livingstone (All-rounder, England) – ₹8.75 crore
- Phil Salt (Wicketkeeper-batter, England) – ₹11.50 crore
- Jitesh Sharma (Wicketkeeper-batter, India) – ₹11 crore
- Josh Hazlewood (Bowler, Australia) – ₹12.50 crore
- Rasikh Dar (Bowler, India) – ₹6 crore
- Suyash Sharma (Bowler, India) – ₹2.60 crore
These acquisitions are aimed at bolstering both batting and bowling departments as RCB seeks to end its 17-year title drought.
Other Captaincy Contenders
While Virat Kohli appears to be the frontrunner for the captaincy role, other potential candidates could be considered:
- Josh Hazlewood: As an experienced international player and a proven leader in various formats, Hazlewood could also be considered for a leadership role if Kohli is not reinstated.
- Liam Livingstone: The newly signed all-rounder has shown leadership capabilities in domestic leagues and could be a future captaincy prospect if RCB decides to invest in a long-term strategy.
RCB Squad in IPL 2025
As of now, RCB has retained key players including:
- Virat Kohli – ₹21 crore
- Rajat Patidar – ₹11 crore
- Yash Dayal – ₹5 crore
With a remaining purse of approximately ₹30.65 crore and several player slots available, RCB has room to make additional strategic purchases before finalizing their squad for IPL 2025.
Summary of RCB Squad Post-Auction
| Player | Role | Price |
| Virat Kohli | Batsman | ₹21 crore |
| Rajat Patidar | Batsman | ₹11 crore |
| Yash Dayal | Bowler | ₹5 crore |
| Liam Livingstone | All-rounder | ₹8.75 crore |
| Phil Salt | Wicketkeeper-batter | ₹11.50 crore |
| Jitesh Sharma | Wicketkeeper-batter | ₹11 crore |
| Josh Hazlewood | Bowler | ₹12.50 crore |
| Rasikh Dar | Bowler | ₹6 crore |
| Suyash Sharma | Bowler | ₹2.60 crore |
As RCB looks ahead to IPL 2025, the blend of retained stars and new signings creates an exciting mix that fans hope will finally lead to their first championship victory.
