The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced challenges in their pursuit of the Indian Premier League (IPL) title during the 2024 season but demonstrated remarkable resilience by turning their fortunes around. Under the leadership of skipper Faf du Plessis, RCB struggled initially, losing seven out of their first eight matches. However, they mounted an impressive comeback, securing a playoff spot by winning six consecutive games. Unfortunately, their playoff journey ended in disappointment when they lost to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) by four wickets in the Eliminator at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. With the mega auction on the horizon, RCB must carefully strategize their retention list.

Key retention guidelines for IPL 2025-27 cycle

The IPL Governing Council has unveiled the player regulations for the upcoming 2025-27 cycle, outlining crucial retention guidelines for franchises. Teams can retain a maximum of six players from their 2024 squads, either through direct retention or the RTM option. Capped players are limited to five – either Indian or overseas- while teams can retain up to two uncapped players.

An intriguing aspect of the new regulations is the reinstatement of the uncapped rule after three years. According to this rule, a capped Indian player who has not participated in international cricket for the last five calendar years or does not hold a Central Contract with the BCCI will be classified as uncapped. This rule was previously in effect from 2008 to 2021 before being removed.

With these new dynamics in play, RCB are likely to opt for retaining three players while leveraging three RTM cards during the IPL 2025 mega auction, scheduled for later this year, either in November or December. The deadline for teams to announce their retentions is October 31, 2024, putting added pressure on the franchise to make timely and strategic decisions about their future lineup.

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6 players RCB can retain ahead of mega auction:

1. Virat Kohli: A Non-Negotiable Retention

Virat Kohli remains the most valuable player for the RCB making him a guaranteed retention choice. As the all-time leading run-scorer in IPL history, he has accumulated over 8,000 runs at an impressive average of 38.67 and a strike rate of 131.97. During the IPL 2024 season, Kohli demonstrated his class by scoring 741 runs in 15 matches, averaging 61.75 with an explosive strike rate of 154.69.

Despite stepping away from T20 internationals, his vast experience and performance in the IPL render him irreplaceable for RCB. His ability to anchor innings while accelerating as needed is crucial for the team’s batting depth. Furthermore, Kohli’s leadership qualities and widespread popularity cement his significance within the franchise. Retaining him will undoubtedly be one of the simplest yet most advantageous decisions for RCB.

2. Cameron Green: A Valuable All-Rounder

Cameron Green enjoyed a commendable season with RCB in IPL 2024, positioning him as a strong retention candidate. Over 13 matches, he scored 255 runs at a strike rate of 143.26 while contributing with the ball by taking 10 wickets. His all-rounder versatility enables him to fulfill multiple roles in the squad, making him an invaluable asset. Although he faced competition from Glenn Maxwell for a retention spot, Green’s overall performance and growth potential might give him the upper hand. His capacity to influence matches with both bat and ball is vital for RCB’s balance. Green’s youthful energy can inject a fresh dynamic into the team’s performance. Thus, retaining him would be a strategic move for the franchise aiming to build a competitive squad for the future.

3. Akash Deep: A Rising Star

Akash Deep has made significant strides in his performance for India in recent times, establishing himself as a promising player worthy of retention. His fast bowling, combined with a keen ability to read the game, allows him to be an effective strike bowler for the team. Deep’s consistency and improvement over the season have been commendable, and retaining him would provide RCB with a young, dynamic option in their bowling arsenal. His development potential is also promising, making him a strategic long-term retention for the franchise.

4. Mohammed Siraj: A Bowling Linchpin

Mohammed Siraj has solidified his position as a key figure in RCB’s bowling attack, making him a top candidate for retention ahead of IPL 2025. The experienced pacer claimed 15 wickets in 14 matches during IPL 2024, maintaining an average of 33.07. His experience in high-pressure situations enables him to perform effectively, often providing crucial breakthroughs for his team.

Siraj’s ability to bowl at various phases of the game, combined with his wicket-taking ability, makes him an indispensable asset. Across his IPL career, he has played 93 matches, securing 93 wickets with a commendable economy rate of 8.65. RCB can depend on him to lead the bowling unit and mentor younger bowlers in the squad. Retaining Siraj would offer RCB the stability and expertise necessary to compete fiercely in the upcoming season.

5. Rajat Patidar: A Key Middle-Order Option

Rajat Patidar’s IPL journey has been marked by growth and resilience, making him a strong candidate for retention by RCB. After a sluggish start in IPL 2024, he rebounded impressively, scoring 395 runs in 15 matches at a strike rate of 177.13. His ability to deliver crucial innings in high-stakes situations was vital for RCB’s playoff qualification. Known for his aggressive batting style, Patidar can stabilize the middle order, which is essential for RCB’s batting strategy. He has already proven his value with a standout performance of 112* in the 2022 season, and his consistency has bolstered his reputation. With five half-centuries in IPL 2024, he has shown he can perform when it matters most. Retaining Patidar ensures that RCB has a reliable and dynamic middle-order option for the future.

6. Yash Dayal: A Promising Uncapped Talent

Yash Dayal has emerged as a surprising yet pivotal player for RCB, making him a strong choice for retention as an uncapped player. In IPL 2024, Dayal claimed 15 wickets in 14 matches, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure, including a key dismissal of MS Dhoni in a must-win game against Chennai Super Kings CSK). Initially criticized for his high auction price, Dayal proved his doubters wrong with consistent performances throughout the season.

His left-arm pace and poise in crucial situations have established him as a valuable member of the bowling unit. Additionally, his selection in the Indian squad for the Test series against Bangladesh highlights his growing reputation and potential for further growth. Retaining Dayal would not only strengthen RCB’s bowling attack but also signify their commitment to nurturing young talent for the future.

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