R Ashwin has sparked excitement among cricket enthusiasts by suggesting that Virat Kohli could return as the captain of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025.
Kohli, who stepped down as RCB's skipper in 2022, briefly resumed leadership duties during IPL 2023 when Faf du Plessis was injured. Now, with du Plessis no longer part of the franchise, fans are speculating whether Kohli will reclaim the captaincy.
Kohli's Legacy as RCB Captain
Previous stint as captain
Dear Lykkers! Kohli led RCB for several years and became synonymous with the franchise. Although his tenure did not yield a title victory, his leadership and batting performances made RCB one of the most competitive teams in the league.
Interim captaincy in 2023
In IPL 2023, Kohli took up the mantle when du Plessis was sidelined due to injury, showcasing his ability to lead effectively under pressure.
Ashwin’s Prediction
Ashwin’s confident remarks
R Ashwin has expressed strong confidence that Kohli will lead RCB in IPL 2025. According to Ashwin, RCB did not actively pursue a captain during the IPL 2025 Auction, indicating a clear reliance on Kohli’s experience and leadership.
Ashwin’s statement
Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel, mentioned, “In all likelihood, Virat Kohli is going to captain the side. The team hasn’t gone for a captain. Unless they have a surprise plan, Kohli seems to be the natural choice for the role.”
RCB’s Terrific Auction Strategy
Balanced approach
Ashwin praised RCB’s strategy during the IPL 2025 Auction, highlighting their focus on building a well-rounded team. RCB carefully selected their key players and avoided impulsive decisions despite having a significant purse.
Targeting key players
Ashwin noted that RCB prioritized a balanced squad rather than splurging on marquee names. The team targeted players suited to specific conditions and needs, ensuring an effective blend of domestic and international talent.
Strategic use of RTMs
Interestingly, RCB refrained from using Right-to-Match (RTM) cards extensively, instead opting for players that aligned with their broader strategy. This approach demonstrated a commitment to long-term planning and adaptability.
RCB Squad for IPL 2025
RCB has assembled a formidable lineup for the 2025 season, featuring a mix of seasoned campaigners and promising talents.
Key international players
Josh Hazlewood (Australia): Rs 12.5 crore
Phil Salt (England): Rs 11.5 crore
Liam Livingstone (England): Rs 8.75 crore
Romario Shepherd (West Indies): Rs 1.5 crore
Top Indian acquisitions
Jitesh Sharma (India): Rs 11 crore
Bhuvneshwar Kumar (India): Rs 10.75 crore
Devdutt Padikkal (India): Rs 2 crore
Krunal Pandya (India): Rs 5.75 crore
Young talents
Suyash Sharma (India): Rs 2.6 crore
Jacob Bethell (England): Rs 2.6 crore
Swastik Chikara (India): Rs 30 lakh
What Lies Ahead for RCB in IPL 2025?
The prospect of Kohli’s return as skipper has already ignited excitement among fans. Coupled with a solid squad and a strategic auction approach, RCB appears poised for a strong campaign in IPL 2025. Whether Kohli takes up the captaincy or not, the team’s preparations suggest a season filled with high hopes and thrilling performances.
