As the IPL 2025 retention deadline draws closer, renowned cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle has offered his insights into the players Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) should retain to maintain a strong core for the next season. According to Bhogle, four standout players from the 2024 season are essential to RCB’s strategy moving forward.
The first and most obvious choice, according to Bhogle, is former captain Virat Kohli. Describing Kohli as a "no-brainer" for retention, Bhogle pointed to the star batsman’s exceptional performance in IPL 2024, where he amassed over 700 runs with a strike rate exceeding 150. Kohli has been the face of RCB for years, and his form last season solidifies his value to the team as both a leader and a key player.
Bhogle’s second pick is current RCB captain Faf du Plessis, despite his age of 40. Bhogle dismissed concerns about the South African's age, instead highlighting his consistent performance across leagues worldwide and his ability to lead RCB effectively over the past three seasons. Bhogle noted that du Plessis made a significant contribution last year, scoring over 400 runs with a strike rate of 161, which makes him a vital player both as a captain and a top-order batsman. He even led St Lucia Kings to victory in the 2024 Caribbean Premier League, reinforcing his credentials.
Rajat Patidar, a player who Bhogle admitted to being a fan of ever since his explosive century against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2024, is Bhogle's third choice for retention. Patidar's powerful hitting made him a standout performer for RCB, as he scored 395 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 177.13, with an average of over 30. Bhogle believes the Madhya Pradesh batter can further bolster RCB’s middle-order strength in future seasons, given his potential for match-winning innings.
Rounding out Bhogle’s list is Mohammed Siraj, RCB’s pace spearhead. Siraj, who took 15 wickets in 14 matches in IPL 2024, has become a vital cog in RCB’s bowling attack. Bhogle emphasized Siraj’s ability to make breakthroughs and contain runs in critical moments, which will be key for RCB’s success in the future.
Bhogle’s recommendations suggest a blend of experience, leadership, and emerging talent, ensuring that RCB’s core team remains competitive in the upcoming IPL seasons. By retaining Kohli, du Plessis, Patidar, and Siraj, Bhogle believes RCB will have the right mix of stability and flair to challenge for the title in IPL 2025.
