RCB IPL 2025 Preview: Squad, Stats & Predicted XI

RCB IPL 2025 Preview: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are set for IPL 2025 with hopes of securing their first-ever title. After a strong comeback last season, RCB aim to go further this year under their new captain, Rajat Patidar. With key signings and a balanced squad, they look well-prepared for the season. Below is a detailed team RCB IPL 2025 preview, including their squad, strengths, weaknesses, and predicted playing XI.

RCB Team Overview for IPL 2025

RCB had an exciting IPL 2024, making a dramatic comeback by winning six consecutive matches to reach the playoffs. However, their campaign ended in the Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals. For IPL 2025, they have taken a new approach by appointing Indian batter Rajat Patidar as captain instead of relying on international players. The franchise has also worked on improving its bowling attack, which has historically been a weak area. With star batters like Virat Kohli and Phil Salt, along with experienced bowlers such as Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, RCB have built a strong squad.

RCB IPL 2025 Preview: Key Players for RCB in IPL 2025

• Virat Kohli – The backbone of RCB’s batting lineup, providing experience and consistency.
• Phil Salt – A dynamic wicketkeeper-batter who can provide aggressive starts.
• Rajat Patidar (Captain) – The newly appointed captain and an important top-order batter.
• Liam Livingstone – A powerful all-rounder who can contribute with both bat and ball.
• Tim David – A destructive finisher known for his big hitting in the death overs.
• Josh Hazlewood – A key fast bowler who brings pace and accuracy to the bowling attack.
• Bhuvneshwar Kumar – An experienced Indian pacer who strengthens RCB’s death bowling.

RCB Squad for IPL 2025

Batters

Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar (C), Liam Livingstone

Wicketkeepers

Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma

All-rounders

Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Jacob Bethell

Bowlers

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Suyash Sharma

RCB SWOT Analysis for IPL 2025

Strengths:

• Explosive Top Order – With Kohli, Salt, and Livingstone, RCB have a strong batting lineup.
• Balanced All-rounders – Players like Krunal Pandya and Tim David add depth to both batting and bowling.
• Improved Bowling Attack – The inclusion of Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar gives them stability in fast bowling.

Weaknesses:

• Death Bowling Concerns – RCB have struggled to contain runs in the final overs, especially at Chinnaswamy Stadium.
• Inexperienced Captaincy – Rajat Patidar is untested as a captain, which could be a challenge in high-pressure games.
• Middle Order Dependence – If the top order fails, the middle order may struggle under pressure.

Opportunities:

• First IPL Title – RCB have a well-balanced squad that can help them finally lift the trophy.
• New Captain’s Impact – Patidar’s leadership could bring fresh energy and a different approach to the team.

Threats:

• Over-reliance on Top Order – If Kohli and Salt fail, RCB may struggle to set or chase big totals.
• Bowling Under Pressure – If death bowling issues persist, opponents may take advantage in close games.

RCB’s Best Playing XI for IPL 2025: RCB IPL 2025 preview

Batting First Playing XI

1. Virat Kohli
2. Phil Salt (wk)
3. Rajat Patidar (C)
4. Devdutt Padikkal
5. Liam Livingstone
6. Jitesh Sharma
7. Tim David
8. Krunal Pandya
9. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
10. Josh Hazlewood
11. Suyash Sharma

Impact Player: Yash Dayal (IN) / Devdutt Padikkal (OUT)

Bowling First Playing XI

1. Virat Kohli
2. Phil Salt (wk)
3. Rajat Patidar (C)
4. Liam Livingstone
5. Jitesh Sharma
6. Tim David
7. Krunal Pandya
8. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
9. Josh Hazlewood
10. Yash Dayal
11. Suyash Sharma

Impact Player: Devdutt Padikkal (IN) / Yash Dayal (OUT)

Also Read: KKR IPL 2025 Preview: Squad, Stats & Predicted XI

RCB have assembled a well-balanced squad with a mix of experienced players and exciting young talent. While their batting remains their biggest strength, their bowling unit has also been significantly strengthened. If Patidar’s captaincy works well and their bowling attack delivers under pressure, RCB have a strong chance of finally winning their maiden IPL title in 2025.

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