Liam Livingstone is set to don the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) jersey after being snapped up for a hefty INR 8.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Released by Punjab Kings (PBKS) after three seasons, the dynamic England all-rounder is now gearing up for a fresh chapter in the IPL.
Livingstone expressed his excitement about joining RCB, highlighting the passionate fanbase and the advantages of playing at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Known for its batting-friendly pitches and smaller boundaries, the venue could perfectly complement his aggressive style of play.
“The fan base is very passionate. It’s probably one of the biggest franchises in the IPL. It’s a fresh start for me. Bangalore’s smaller ground and excellent pitch should suit my game well,” Liam Livingstone shared with Reuters.
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Reflecting on the auction, Liam Livingstone lauded RCB’s strategic approach in assembling a competitive squad. He is particularly thrilled about sharing the dressing room with Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli.
Liam Livingstone said – “I think RCB & Bangalore is going to be very good for my game, certainly better than what Punjab was for me. RCB fanbase is very passionate. RCB is one of the biggest franchises in IPL”. (Reuters). pic.twitter.com/C9zf49zCvt
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“We had a really good auction, picking players cleverly. I know a few people in the team already, and I’m excited to play as a group. Sharing the field with someone like Virat is going to be really cool,” he said. Beyond the IPL, Liam Livingstone recently captained England in Jos Buttler’s absence during the West Indies tour, calling it a proud moment in his career. “Leading my country was special. It’s a proud moment for anyone to captain their national team. I’m just happy to be fit and doing what I love,” he added.
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Livingstone’s IPL record speaks volumes about his potential. Over 39 matches, he has accumulated 939 runs at an average of 28.45 and an explosive strike rate of 162.46. His top knock, a blistering 94 off 48 balls against Delhi Capitals, underlines his match-winning abilities.
RCB fans will be hoping that Livingstone’s presence bolsters their bid for an elusive maiden IPL title. With a powerful hitter like Livingstone in their ranks, alongside legends like Virat Kohli, the 2025 season could finally be the year the trophy lands in Bengaluru.