The IPL 2025 season is poised to be an intriguing chapter for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), especially following the departure of two key pacers who were instrumental in the team’s arsenal during IPL 2024. The loss of Lockie Ferguson and Mohammed Siraj could very well be felt in RCB’s quest to clinch their first IPL title. Here’s how their absence might affect the team:
Lockie Ferguson
Lockie Ferguson, known for his raw pace and intimidating bouncers, was a significant asset for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2024. His ability to bowl at speeds upwards of 150 km/h made him a nightmare for batsmen, especially in the death overs where his variations and sheer aggression could disrupt even the best of batting line-ups. Ferguson’s knack for taking wickets at crucial moments was not just about his pace; it was his precision in executing yorkers and his mastery over the slower ball that made him stand out.
Now with Punjab Kings (PBKS), Ferguson’s departure leaves a considerable void in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s pace attack. His role was not just about taking wickets but also about setting the tone with the new ball or changing the momentum of the game with a spell in the middle overs. His absence means Royal Challengers Bengaluru will miss out on the psychological advantage that comes with having a bowler who can consistently outpace and outthink opponents. This loss could be particularly felt on pitches that support pace and bounce, where Ferguson thrived.
His departure also impacts the team’s strategy, especially in terms of their overseas player combinations. With Ferguson out, Royal Challengers Bengaluru might need to juggle their international slots more carefully, potentially affecting their team balance. The challenge for Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be to find or develop a bowler who can replicate at least some of Ferguson’s blistering pace and strategic acumen, a task that seems daunting considering his unique skill set.
Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj, having moved to the Gujarat Titans, was not just a bowler for Royal Challengers Bengaluru but also a symbol of their investment in Indian talent. Siraj’s journey from a promising young pacer to a pivotal player for both RCB and the Indian national team was well-documented, and his performances in IPL 2024 were testament to his growth. Siraj’s swing with the new ball, his ability to adapt to conditions at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, and his leadership within the bowling unit were all crucial.
His departure to the Titans means RCB loses not only one of their most reliable bowlers but also a mentor figure for the younger players in the squad. His knowledge of the local conditions, his variations like the knuckleball, and his improved death bowling were all aspects that RCB will now have to do without.
The void left by Siraj is not just in his wicket-taking ability but also in his capacity to bowl economically, which was vital in a team that often had to compensate for a high-scoring batting lineup. His absence might lead to a shift in strategy, particularly in how RCB approaches the powerplay overs and the death where Siraj was often at his best.
Furthermore, Siraj’s departure means RCB must now look for a bowler who can handle the new ball responsibilities while also being effective in different phases of the game. This transition could be challenging, especially since Siraj had become synonymous with RCB’s bowling attack, much like a franchise player.
Looking Ahead
The departure of both Lockie Ferguson and Mohammed Siraj from Royal Challengers Bengaluru for IPL 2025 poses significant strategic and morale challenges for the team. Their unique contributions, both in terms of skill and leadership, are not easily replaceable. RCB’s management will need to make astute decisions in the auction or through trades to bolster their pace attack. The team might need to look towards developing young talent or making bold acquisitions to compensate for these losses.
While every IPL season brings its share of new stars and surprises, the absence of these two pacers could be a defining factor in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s campaign in 2025. Their impact on the field was substantial, and their absence might just be the difference between a playoff spot and an early exit. The challenge for Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be to adapt, innovate, and find new heroes in their quest for the elusive IPL trophy.
