Indian Premier League (IPL), where teams are meticulously crafted to chase the elusive trophy, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have once again entered the fray with a blend of seasoned stars and promising talents. However, not every player in the squad gets the chance to shine under the IPL’s bright lights. For IPL 2025, despite the excitement around new acquisitions and retentions, there are players like Swastik Chhikara, Manoj Bhandage, and Abhinandan Singh who might find themselves warming the benches more than they would like. Here’s why these three might not play a single match for RCB in the upcoming season.
Swastik Chhikara:
Swastik Chhikara, a name that might not ring bells for many IPL enthusiasts yet, was picked up by RCB with an eye on the future. His domestic performances, especially in the shorter formats, have shown promise, but IPL cricket demands immediate impact. With RCB’s top order already stacked with international stars like Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and new additions like Phil Salt, Chhikara’s chances of breaking into the playing XI are slim unless there’s a string of injuries or a drastic shift in team strategy. His role as a middle-order batsman might be overshadowed by the likes of Liam Livingstone or even Tim David, who offer more with both bat and ball.
Manoj Bhandage:
Manoj Bhandage, known for his explosive batting, was another strategic buy by RCB, aiming to bolster their middle order with local talent. However, the IPL isn’t just about raw talent; it’s about fitting into the team’s immediate needs and strategies. With RCB’s focus on a balanced side that can both bat deep and bowl effectively, Bhandage’s primary role as a batsman might not justify his inclusion over all-rounders or bowlers who can contribute in multiple facets of the game. His case is further complicated by the presence of players like Krunal Pandya, who not only bats but also bowls, making him a more attractive option for the playing XI.
Abhinandan Singh:
Abhinandan Singh, a lesser-known name even in domestic circles, was perhaps picked up by RCB as a developmental project or a bench strength addition. His inclusion in the squad might be more about future potential rather than immediate IPL impact. With RCB’s bowling attack already featuring names like Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and the versatile Suyash Sharma, Singh’s chances of getting a game are minimal unless there’s a significant injury crisis or a surprising dip in form from the main bowlers. His role as a bowler might not offer the variety or the immediate threat that RCB’s strategy seems to prioritize.
The IPL, with its high stakes and intense competition, often sees players with potential sidelined due to the sheer depth of talent in each squad. For Swastik Chhikara, Manoj Bhandage, and Abhinandan Singh, their journey with RCB in IPL 2025 might be more about learning, adapting, and waiting for their moment rather than making immediate impacts. While their inclusion in the squad speaks volumes about RCB’s investment in young talent, the reality of match selection might not favor them this season. However, their time in the RCB setup, even if from the sidelines, could be invaluable, setting them up for future IPL seasons or international cricket. For now, they remain part of RCB’s broader strategy, where every player, whether playing or not, contributes to the team’s ecosystem, waiting for their chance to shine in the cricketing carnival that is the IPL.
