The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have recently announced their retained players for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, securing Virat Kohli for INR 21 crore, Rajat Patidar for INR 11 crore, and Yash Dayal for INR 5 crore. This move highlights the franchise’s intention to revamp their squad as they prepare for the next IPL edition. With a substantial remaining budget of INR 83 crore—the second-largest purse among the 10 franchises—RCB has considerable flexibility to make significant additions to their lineup.
Former RCB star AB de Villiers weighed in on the team’s potential strategy for the auction, outlining key players he believes would be invaluable for a successful campaign. De Villiers, who remains closely connected with the RCB fan base, suggested that the franchise should prioritize securing a “world-class spinner” and specifically recommended bringing back Yuzvendra Chahal, who previously thrived at RCB before moving to the Rajasthan Royals.
“₹83 crore to spend, which is fantastic. The priority should be a top-notch spinner. Let’s just get Yuzi back—he belongs at RCB and should never have left. RCB should also consider Ravi Ashwin. With Ashwin’s vast experience and his ability to contribute with the bat, he can be a game-changer. Imagine RCB with the spin duo of Yuzi Chahal and Ravi Ashwin—players who know their game inside and out. I’d be thrilled with that,” Ab de Villiers expressed on his YouTube channel.
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Beyond spinners, AB de Villiers emphasized building a “tournament-winning bowling attack.” He recommended fast-bowling ace Kagiso Rabada as another key addition, envisioning a core bowling lineup featuring Chahal, Rabada, and possibly Ashwin.
“With Rabada, Yuzi Chahal, and Ravi Ashwin, we’re talking about a formidable bowling attack that could lead us to the trophy. My top four targets are Chahal, Rabada, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Ashwin—I’d nearly spend the whole purse on them,” AB de Villiers shared enthusiastically.
As alternatives, AB de Villiers suggested acquiring either Mohammed Shami or Arshdeep Singh if Rabada proves unattainable. His advice also extended to head coach Andy Flower, urging him and the RCB management to select players who can adapt to the unique conditions at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, RCB’s home ground.
“If you can’t get Rabada, then go for Shami or Arshdeep. There’s a lot of talent out there. Andy Flower and the team need to get it right. RCB deserves a trophy! But more importantly, we need players who understand how to play at Chinnaswamy, players who can execute plans for our conditions,” he added.
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The IPL auction is scheduled for November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, promising an exciting opportunity for RCB to build a team capable of making a serious title run.
