As Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) gear up for the IPL 2025 season, three players stand out as potential game-changers: Virat Kohli, the team’s batting linchpin and former orange cap holder from IPL 2024; Rajat Patidar, whose consistent performances in domestic cricket signal his readiness for big moments; and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, a seasoned campaigner whose addition to RCB’s bowling lineup could prove pivotal. Together, these players blend experience, leadership, and emerging talent, promising to steer RCB towards a much-anticipated title run.
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, the heart and soul of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), continues to be a central figure in the team’s aspirations for the IPL 2025. As the orange cap holder of IPL 2024, Kohli’s batting form was nothing short of spectacular, amassing runs with both consistency and flair. His leadership qualities have always been evident, although Royal Challengers Bengaluru has not made a public announcement regarding the team’s leader for the upcoming season.
Kohli’s ability to anchor the innings or accelerate as needed makes him a nightmare for opposing bowlers, especially in a high-pressure tournament like the IPL. His experience, coupled with his unmatched work ethic, positions him not just as a run-scorer but as a mentor to the younger players in the squad. His presence alone can change the dynamics of a game, providing stability or the impetus needed to chase down targets or set daunting totals. Kohli’s tactical acumen on the field, even without the official captain’s tag, ensures Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s strategy is always geared towards winning, making him an indispensable asset as they look to break their long-standing drought for the IPL title.
Rajat Patidar
Rajat Patidar has emerged from the shadows to become a significant player for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, especially after his stellar performances in domestic cricket. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024, Patidar scored 428 runs with an average of 61.2 and a strike rate of 186.08, showcasing his ability to score runs under pressure. His role in leading Madhya Pradesh to the finals of the tournament further cements his reputation as a clutch player.
The Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2025 saw him continue his form, scoring 226 runs at an average of 56.5, although with a more measured strike rate of 107.1, indicating his versatility to adapt his game according to the team’s needs. For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Patidar’s inclusion in the middle order could be pivotal, offering both depth and acceleration. His knack for playing spin well, which he demonstrated in domestic cricket, could be particularly beneficial on the spin-friendly pitches of IPL. With Kohli at the helm of the batting, Patidar’s role will be to build on the foundation or provide the finishing touches, potentially turning matches in RCB’s favor.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Bhuvneshwar Kumar, after being released by Sunrisers Hyderabad following the 2024 IPL, found a new home with RCB for ₹10.75 crores in the November 2024 auctions. His acquisition was seen as a masterstroke, given his experience and proven track record in the IPL. Known for his accurate yorkers and deceptive knuckleballs, Bhuvneshwar has taken 181 wickets in 176 matches, maintaining an economy rate of 7.56, which speaks volumes about his control and ability to bowl in critical phases of the game.
In IPL 2025, Bhuvneshwar is expected to lead RCB’s pace attack alongside Josh Hazlewood, providing both experience and skill. His ability to swing the ball both ways in the powerplay and deliver precise death overs could be crucial for RCB, especially on pitches that assist bowlers. His leadership in the bowling unit, coupled with his knack for taking wickets at crucial junctures, will be invaluable. Furthermore, his presence will be a guiding force for the younger pacers in the team, helping them learn the nuances of T20 bowling.
Looking Forward
The trio of Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar forms a formidable core for RCB in IPL 2025. Kohli’s leadership on and off the field, Patidar’s emergence as a reliable middle-order batsman, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s seasoned bowling prowess offer RCB a balanced team capable of challenging for the title. Each player brings a unique skill set that complements the others, potentially making RCB a well-rounded outfit. If these three can align their peaks with RCB’s needs, the team might finally translate their potential into the much-coveted IPL title. The anticipation for IPL 2025 is not just about the cricket but about how these players weave their magic in Bangalore’s colors.
