Indian Premier League (IPL), few teams have captured the imagination of cricket fans quite like the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Known for their flair, style, and an unwavering fan base, RCB has been a powerhouse of cricketing talent over the years. As we approach IPL 2025, with the mega auction set to take place in Riyadh on November 24 or 25, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the top run-scorers who have donned the RCB jersey, contributing to the team’s rich history.
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, the modern-day cricketing legend, has been the heartbeat of RCB since his debut in 2008. Retained for a staggering 21 Crores for IPL 2025, Kohli’s stats speak volumes of his consistency and class. With 8428 runs in 267 matches, his highest score of 113* and a strike rate of 132.78, Kohli isn’t just a run-scorer; he’s an institution at RCB. His journey from a promising youngster to the captain and now a retained star player encapsulates the essence of RCB’s spirit.
AB de Villiers
AB de Villiers, often referred to as “Mr. 360” for his ability to hit the ball in all directions, has been nothing short of a spectacle. From 2011 to 2021, he amassed 4522 runs in 157 matches, with a highest score of 133* and a strike rate of 158.33. His partnership with Kohli was stuff of legends, often turning matches on their head with sheer brilliance. De Villiers’ tenure at RCB was marked by innovation, audacity, and some of the most memorable innings in IPL history.
Chris Gayle
Chris Gayle, the ‘Universe Boss’, brought his own brand of cricket to RCB. From 2011 to 2017, Gayle scored 3420 runs in 91 matches, with a highest score of 175*, which remains one of the highest individual scores in IPL history. His strike rate of 154.40 tells the story of a man who could dismantle any bowling attack with his sheer power and timing. Gayle’s presence in the RCB lineup was not just about runs; it was about setting a tone of dominance.
Faf du Plessis
Faf du Plessis, although relatively new to RCB, has quickly made his mark. In just 45 matches from 2022 to 2024, he scored 1636 runs with a strike rate of 146.99. His highest score of 96 might not match the fireworks of his predecessors, but his consistency and ability to anchor innings have been crucial for RCB, especially in Kohli’s absence.
Jacques Kallis
Jacques Kallis, the South African all-rounder, might not have the explosive numbers of others but brought a different dimension to RCB. From 2008 to 2010, he scored 1271 runs in 46 matches with a highest score of 89*. His strike rate of 113.17, while modest by today’s standards, was a testament to his all-round cricketing acumen, providing stability in both batting and bowling.
As RCB gears up for IPL 2025, retaining key players like Kohli, Rajat Patidar (11 Cr), and Yash Dayal (5 Cr), the team looks poised to blend experience with youth. The auction in Riyadh will be crucial, not just for filling gaps but for setting the tone for the season. The legacy of these top run-scorers will undoubtedly influence the team’s strategy, aiming to finally clinch that elusive IPL trophy.
IPL is a celebration of cricket, it’s also a narrative of players who, through their performances, become part of a team’s folklore. For RCB, these top run-scorers have not just scored runs; they’ve built a legacy. As fans, we look forward to seeing how the next chapter unfolds, with new heroes emerging, perhaps inspired by the giants who came before them. The IPL 2025 auction in Riyadh will be more than just a bidding war; it will be a continuation of a legacy, with RCB aiming to script their own fairy tale ending.
