Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have unveiled their squad for IPL 2025, with a few surprising selections and tactical changes. Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, the Bengaluru-based franchise is looking to end its long title drought in the upcoming season.
As the RCB probable playing XI IPL 2025 takes shape, Virat Kohli is set to open the innings, partnering with England’s Phil Salt. Meanwhile, Krunal Pandya is expected to take the No. 4 spot, adding strength to the middle order. With new additions and retained stars, the RCB probable playing XI IPL 2025 is packed with experience and firepower.
Virat Kohli to Open With Phil Salt in IPL 2025
RCB’s biggest strength remains the presence of Virat Kohli, the all-time leading run scorer in IPL history. The 36-year-old will be key in RCB’s title aspirations, and he is set to open alongside English wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt, who was signed for ₹11.50 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction.
At No. 3, Rajat Patidar, the newly appointed captain, will continue his role. The Madhya Pradesh batter, who was retained for ₹14 crore, delivered impressive performances last season and will aim to lead from the front in RCB probable playing XI IPL 2025.
Krunal Pandya Likely to Bat at No. 4 for RCB in IPL 2025
A potential tactical shift could see Krunal Pandya promoted to No. 4 in the RCB probable playing XI IPL 2025. The former Mumbai Indians all-rounder, who was signed for ₹5.75 crore, brings aggressive left-handed batting and useful spin bowling to the squad.
The middle order will be further strengthened by the inclusion of Jacob Bethell and Liam Livingstone, who joined RCB for ₹2.60 crore and ₹8.75 crore, respectively. Meanwhile, Tim David and Romario Shepherd provide backup options for the RCB probable playing XI IPL 2025.
Jitesh Sharma to Play a Key Finisher Role for RCB
RCB also made a big investment in wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, acquiring him for ₹11 crore. The Vidarbha-based player has shown flashes of brilliance in previous IPL seasons with Punjab Kings, but for RCB probable playing XI IPL 2025, he will be expected to take his game to the next level as a finisher.
RCB’s Bowling Attack for IPL 2025
On the bowling front, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood will lead the attack. The two experienced bowlers were acquired for ₹10.75 crore and ₹12.50 crore, respectively. They will be complemented by uncapped Indian pacer Yash Dayal, who was retained before the IPL 2025 auction.
Although RCB lacks a world-class frontline spinner, they will rely on young Suyash Sharma to disrupt opposition batting lineups.
RCB’s Impact Player Options in IPL 2025
As per the new impact player rule, RCB probable playing XI IPL 2025 will have the flexibility to bring in Devdutt Padikkal, Rasikh Dar, Swapnil Singh, or Swastik Chhikara depending on match conditions.
RCB Probable Playing XI IPL 2025
✅ Virat Kohli
✅ Phil Salt (WK)
✅ Rajat Patidar (C)
✅ Krunal Pandya
✅ Jacob Bethell
✅ Liam Livingstone
✅ Jitesh Sharma
✅ Bhuvneshwar Kumar
✅ Suyash Sharma
✅ Josh Hazlewood
✅ Yash Dayal
Can RCB Finally Win IPL 2025?
With a balanced mix of experience and young talent, RCB probable playing XI IPL 2025 looks promising. However, their chances of lifting the trophy will depend on how well their bowling attack performs and whether their batting lineup can deliver under pressure.
Will this be the season RCB probable playing XI IPL 2025 finally ends their title drought? Only time will tell!
