As the IPL 2025 season approaches, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) fans are eager to see if their team can finally clinch the elusive title. However, every season brings its share of uncertainties, and this year Royal Challengers Bengaluru might find itself grappling with performances from some of its new acquisitions. Here’s a look at three players who might struggle to make an impact: Devdutt Padikkal, Tim David, and Krunal Pandya.
Devdutt Padikkal
Devdutt Padikkal joins Royal Challengers Bengaluru from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) with significant expectations due to his early promise in the IPL. However, his form has seen a noticeable dip. Known for his elegant left-handed batting, Padikkal has shown glimpses of brilliance but has struggled to maintain consistency. His move from LSG, where he was part of the team’s batting core, to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, could be a make-or-break season for him.
The pressure of performing for a team with high expectations like Royal Challengers Bengaluru, coupled with the competition for spots in a batting lineup that includes seasoned campaigners, might weigh heavily on Padikkal. His technique against pace has been questioned, particularly in the powerplay overs where he needs to set a solid foundation. If he fails to adapt quickly to the specific demands of RCB’s strategy or if his form doesn’t recover, Padikkal might find himself on the bench or struggling to make a significant impact in the season.
Tim David
Tim David, known for his explosive hitting, comes to Royal Challengers Bengaluru after a relatively underwhelming season with Mumbai Indians where he scored 241 runs in 13 matches. His role as a finisher, someone who can change the game’s complexion with a few big hits, is crucial for any team. However, his performance in Mumbai showed that he might not be as consistent as expected.
For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, David’s inclusion is aimed at bolstering the middle order with power-hitting capabilities. However, his success largely depends on getting enough deliveries to face, which in a team filled with batting stars might not be guaranteed. If he’s unable to find his rhythm or if the opposition bowling attacks manage to keep him quiet, especially with his known issues against spin in the middle overs, David could be seen more as a liability than an asset. His ability to adapt to different match situations and not just rely on brute force will be key. If he doesn’t manage to adapt or if his opportunities are limited, David might not set Indian Premier League 2025 on fire for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Krunal Pandya
Krunal Pandya, another acquisition from LSG, brings with him the reputation of a seasoned all-rounder. However, his recent IPL stats paint a less impressive picture; in 12 matches, he took only 6 wickets at an average of 42.50 and an economy rate of 7.72. His batting, while useful, hasn’t been the game-changer it once was. For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Pandya is expected to provide balance, offering both bowling and batting depth, but his effectiveness has been waning.
The challenge for Pandya at RCB will be to prove that he can still be the match-winner he was known to be. His bowling, especially in the middle overs, needs to be more economical and wicket-taking. If he continues to be expensive or fails to take crucial wickets, his place in the team might be questioned. Moreover, with the bat, he needs to deliver under pressure, something he’s struggled with recently. If Pandya cannot rediscover his form or if he’s overshadowed by other all-rounders in the squad, his impact on RCB’s campaign could be minimal, potentially rendering him a flop in the eyes of fans and critics alike.
The Indian Premier League 2025 season for Royal Challengers Bengaluru could be a rollercoaster, with these three players – Padikkal, David, and Pandya – carrying significant expectations but also considerable risks. Their performances will be crucial for RCB, not just in terms of individual accolades but in how they contribute to the team’s overall strategy and success. If they fail to adapt, find form, or make an impact, they might be labeled as flops. However, cricket is a game of redemption, and with the right opportunities, coaching, and personal drive, these players could still turn their fortunes around. As RCB fans hope for a title this season, these players’ performances will be under the microscope, potentially defining their careers in the IPL.
