IPL 2025: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has announced its list of retained players for the IPL 2025 season, securing superstar Virat Kohli at a record-breaking ₹21 crore. This retention not only cements Kohli as the most expensive Indian player for the season but also stirs speculation about his potential return to the captaincy. Alongside Kohli, RCB has retained Rajat Patidar and Yash Dayal, leaving three Right to Match (RTM) cards at their disposal for the upcoming mega auction.
Kohli Remains RCB’s Crown Jewel At 21 Crore
In a move that was widely anticipated but still striking for its scale, RCB has retained Virat Kohli at ₹21 crore, making him the highest-valued Indian retention in IPL 2025. The former India captain’s market value and immense fan base make him a crucial asset for RCB, both on and off the field. Kohli’s retention further opens up questions about a potential return to leadership, especially since he has already been a long-standing pillar for the franchise and led RCB in multiple seasons before stepping down.
Key Retentions: Patidar and Dayal Bring Balance
Rajat Patidar, the emerging middle-order batsman, has also been retained by RCB at ₹11 crore. Patidar’s ability to stabilize the innings and play with aggression in the middle overs has made him a valuable player for the franchise. His consistency and calm approach under pressure align well with RCB’s goals to build a reliable middle order around experienced talents.
The franchise has also retained Yash Dayal, a promising left-arm seamer, at ₹5 crore. Dayal’s addition brings a left-arm bowling option into RCB’s setup, something the team has looked to strengthen over recent seasons. With his ability to swing the ball early and contain runs at the death, Dayal’s retention highlights RCB’s aim to reinforce their bowling, a department that has often posed challenges for the team.
IPL RCB’s 2025 Retained Players List
Virat Kohli: INR 21 crore
Rajat Patidar: INR 11 crore
Yash Dayal: INR 5 crore
Captaincy Speculations: Will Kohli Reclaim the Leadership Role?
One of the major talking points for RCB heading into the 2025 season is the potential return of Kohli to the captaincy. While Kohli was expected to top RCB’s retention list, there has been growing speculation about whether he might reassume the leadership mantle. Since stepping down, South African Faf du Plessis has captained the side with mixed results. Although a seasoned leader, du Plessis faced challenges as captain, particularly in delivering consistent performances from RCB’s bowling lineup.
In the 2024 season, RCB had a poor start, losing six of their first seven games. However, they staged an impressive comeback, winning seven games in a row to reach the playoffs. Despite this late rally, their season ended in the Eliminator after losing to Rajasthan Royals. With RCB still in search of their maiden IPL trophy, Kohli’s return to the captaincy could bring a new dimension to the team’s dynamics and fuel their title aspirations.
Three RTM Cards Available for Mega Auction
Heading into the IPL 2025 mega auction, RCB holds a strategic advantage with three Right to Match (RTM) cards available. This flexibility will allow RCB to potentially secure back important players they couldn’t retain or target high-impact players in the auction pool. Given the franchise’s goal to strengthen their bowling attack and add depth to their squad, these RTM cards will be crucial in addressing their long-standing weaknesses.
Aiming for IPL Glory
The 2025 season holds high stakes for RCB, with the franchise’s loyal fanbase eagerly awaiting their first IPL trophy. Retaining Kohli, Patidar, and Dayal sets a solid foundation, but RCB’s decisions in the mega auction and possible leadership shifts could determine their chances. With a bolstered squad, RCB will look to turn their potential into consistent performances and aim for the IPL title that has eluded them for years.
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