As the IPL 2025 season approaches, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans have reason to be optimistic about their team’s prospects. After several seasons where RCB came close but fell short of clinching the much-coveted IPL trophy, the franchise has undertaken significant changes in their squad composition. Here, we delve into two critical areas where RCB has notably strengthened for the upcoming season compared to 2024.
1. A Superior Bowling Lineup:
Historically, RCB’s bowling has been a point of concern, often overshadowed by their star-studded batting line-up. In IPL 2024, the team relied heavily on Mohammed Siraj, with limited support from other bowlers, particularly in the pace department. This year, however, Royal Challengers Bangalore has addressed this imbalance head-on. The inclusion of Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar as the main fast bowlers marks a significant upgrade. Hazlewood, known for his precision and ability to deliver under pressure, brings back experience and a proven track record to the RCB attack. His previous stint with RCB was notable, and his return is expected to bolster the team’s prospects, especially in the powerplay and death overs. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, another seasoned campaigner, adds depth with his swing bowling and variations, particularly effective in the early overs and at the death. This duo, alongside Siraj, forms a trio that promises not only wickets but also control over the run rate, offering Royal Challengers chance to dictate terms in matches more consistently than before.
2. Reinforcement in the Middle Order:
The middle order has been another area where RCB has often lacked depth and consistency. For IPL 2025, the team has made bold moves in this department. The addition of Liam Livingstone and Jacob Bethell introduces both experience and potential. Livingstone, an explosive all-rounder from England, has the capability to change the game’s dynamics with his aggressive batting and useful off-spin. His ability to bat anywhere in the middle order gives RCB the flexibility to adapt to different match scenarios, something they sorely missed last season. On the other hand, Jacob Bethell, a young and dynamic talent, represents the future. His performances in domestic cricket and for England’s U-19 team suggest he could be a game-changer, offering RCB not just backup but also a long-term investment in the middle order.
These strategic acquisitions highlight RCB’s intent to address previous weaknesses. The bowling attack now carries a more balanced threat with Hazlewood and Kumar complementing Siraj, potentially making RCB a formidable force across all phases of the game. Meanwhile, the middle order, with Livingstone’s experience and Bethell’s promise, looks set to provide the stability and firepower that was often lacking. This revamped team composition could be the key to unlocking RCB’s potential in IPL 2025, giving fans hope of not just playoff qualification but a genuine run at the title. As the season unfolds, it will be intriguing to see how these changes translate onto the field, potentially marking a new era for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
