As the Indian Premier League (IPL) gears up for its 2025 edition, the spotlight often falls on the players who can change the game’s dynamics with their gloves as much as with their bat. Wicket-keepers in the IPL are not just defenders of the stumps but often pivotal in setting the tone with the bat, especially at the top or middle order. Here’s a look at who might be donning the gloves for each team in IPL 2025, based on current trends and team strategies.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) – Quinton de Kock
Quinton de Kock, known for his explosive starts, could be the man behind the stumps for KKR. His experience in international cricket and IPL makes him a valuable asset, not just for his wicket-keeping but for his ability to anchor innings or accelerate as needed.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) – Heinrich Klaasen
Heinrich Klaasen’s agility and aggressive batting style make him a natural fit for SRH. His performances in recent times have shown he can be both a reliable wicket-keeper and a match-winner with the bat, particularly in the death overs.
Rajasthan Royals – Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson, the captain of Rajasthan Royals, might continue to keep wickets. His leadership skills combined with his flair for big scores make him an integral part of the team’s strategy, balancing the responsibilities of captaincy with wicket-keeping.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) – Phil Salt
Phil Salt’s inclusion as RCB’s wicket-keeper could bring a new dimension to their batting lineup. His ability to score quickly from the get-go could complement the likes of Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell, providing a solid start or a late flourish.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – MS Dhoni
The legendary MS Dhoni, if he continues, will likely be behind the stumps for CSK. His experience, calm demeanor, and finishing prowess make him irreplaceable, though his role might be more strategic than purely athletic.
Delhi Capitals – KL Rahul
KL Rahul, with his consistent performances, could be the choice for Delhi Capitals. His leadership, combined with his keeping skills, provides stability at the top of the order, setting the platform for the middle order.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) – Rishabh Pant
Rishabh Pant, known for his aggressive batting, could be a game-changer for LSG. His return to form post-injury would be a significant boost, offering both flair with the bat and agility behind the stumps.
Gujarat Titans – Jos Buttler
Jos Buttler’s inclusion as the wicket-keeper for Gujarat Titans could see him continue his role as an opener. His ability to score quickly and adapt to different match situations makes him a versatile choice.
Punjab Kings (PBKS) – Josh Inglis
Josh Inglis might be the man for PBKS, bringing his international experience and a knack for scoring runs under pressure. His keeping skills, combined with his batting, could make him a key player.
Mumbai Indians – Ryan Rickelton
Ryan Rickelton, though less known, could be Mumbai’s choice for a fresh approach. His domestic performances suggest he has the potential to step up, offering both reliability with the gloves and the bat.
The IPL 2025 promises to be a spectacle not just for cricketing prowess but for the strategic choices teams make regarding their wicket-keepers. These players, often undervalued for their dual roles, could be the linchpins in their teams’ strategies, offering stability, aggression, or both as the situation demands. As fans, we await to see how these selections pan out, potentially shaping the narrative of the season with their performances. The blend of experience with emerging talents behind the stumps could well define the success stories of IPL 2025.
