Will Virat Kohli open? Andy Flower drops hints on RCB batting order for IPL 2025

In a bid to finish their trophy drought, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have put collectively a robust batting line-up for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Beneath the pinnacle coach Andy Fleurthe franchise made landmark acquisitions at public sale and retained key gamers like Virat Kohli And Rajat Patidar. With a balanced mixture of skilled worldwide stars and rising home skills, RCB goals to turn into probably the most aggressive groups within the league.

RCB’s potential batting line-up for IPL 2025: Andy Flower’s technique

In an enticing dialog with Sport ThanksRCB head coach Flower shared his views on the franchise’s strategic planning and potential line-up for the IPL 2025 season. When requested concerning the thought course of carried out throughout the mega-auction, Flower highlighted two key areas the staff needed to strengthen. “There have been two actually apparent areas that we felt we wanted to deal with, and we chosen hitters with a variety of energy. » » mentioned Flower, hinting at a centered strategy geared toward enhancing the staff’s firepower and depth.

Whereas Flower remained tight-lipped on RCB’s actual plans, his remarks hinted at a well-thought-out strategy geared toward clinching the elusive IPL title in 2025. With a mixture of confirmed performers and promising skills, RCB seems having constructed a staff able to difficult the perfect within the event.

Opening pair to look at for Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Flower defined the staff’s choice philosophy, which prioritized discovering explosive batting skills able to delivering match-winning performances, particularly on the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium – a venue recognized for its high-scoring matches. He remarked,

“When you take a look at the potential line-up, Phil Salt, who is understood for his aggressive opening prowess, may accomplice Virat Kohli on the prime,” » added the previous cricketer.

Kohli, retained for INR 21 crore, will open the innings once more. After a superb IPL 2024 season, the place he gained the Orange Cap with 741 runs, Kohli stays the cornerstone of RCB’s batting line-up. His consistency, with six seasons of 400-plus runs within the final seven editions of the IPL, highlights his significance as an anchor and performer below stress.

Kohli’s accomplice can be Salt, acquired for INR 11.50 crore after a improbable IPL 2024 with KKR, the place he scored 435 runs in 12 matches. Salt’s aggressive strategy enhances Kohli’s sport, particularly on the smaller boundaries on the Chinnaswamy Stadium, making them a formidable opening duo. Moreover, Salt will don the wicketkeeping gloves, including versatility to the staff.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025: RCB’s wishlist for mega auction finally revealed

Mid-order stability for IPL 2025

The coach reserved specific reward for Rajat Patidar, one of the most consistent national artists and a revelation for RCB in earlier IPL seasons. Flower additionally spoke about Liam Livingstone, a confirmed all-rounder who provides each depth and adaptability to the squad.

“After which additional down the order we’ve got Rajat Patidar who was sensational for us final season. He has additionally been in nice type in home cricket, as has Liam Livingstone. The RCB head coach famous this.

Rajat Patidar, retained for INR 11 crore, is anticipated to achieve third place. After constant performances within the final two IPL seasons, with 333 and 395 runs in 2023 and 2024 respectively, Patidar’s home type has additionally been outstanding. His potential to speed up makes him a possible candidate for RCB captaincy sooner or later.

At No. 4, Liam Livingstone, purchased for INR 8.75 crore, brings energy and flexibility. Though his final two IPL seasons have been disappointing, his potential to clear the ropes and contribute to spin bowling makes him a priceless asset. His current sturdy type in worldwide cricket can be essential for RCB.

Decrease center order of the Bengaluru-based franchise

Addressing the necessity for sturdy ending, Flower highlighted the inclusion of Jitesh Sharma, a younger keeper-batsman recognized for his ending potential and aptitude below stress. “Jitesh Sharma is an thrilling younger keeper-batsman who has been excellent on the home circuit and brings an thrilling dynamic to our aspect,” the 56-year-old defined.

One other essential addition to the decrease center order is Tim David, whose popularity as a finisher precedes him. “Tim’s success with Australia and in T20 leagues world wide reveals his potential to deal with excessive stress conditions, so nice energy, particularly in excessive scoring matches at Chinnaswamy, makes him an ideal candidate for our plans”, Fleur concluded.

Jitesh, acquired for INR 11 crore, is prone to bat at No.5. Identified for his ending expertise, Sharma’s efficiency within the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophythe place he scored with a strike fee of 225.00, making him a key middle-order hitter.

Tim, purchased for INR 3 crore, is anticipated to supply firepower at No. 6. After respectable IPL stints with MI, scoring 231 and 241 runs in 2023 and 2024, David’s aggressive hitting can be essential for RCB’s deaths. His familiarity with RCB, having debuted with the franchise in 2021, provides a bonus.

ALSO READ: 3 players who can captain Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025