RCB is 10 instances extra balanced than ever: AB de Villiers on sturdy IPL 2025 begin

South African cricket legend and former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star AB de Villiers has heaped reward on the franchise’s present squad, calling it essentially the most balanced workforce within the Indian Premier League’s (IPL) historical past. De Villiers, who stays one in every of RCB’s most iconic gamers, credited the workforce’s balanced composition for his or her efficient efficiency this season.

RCB have made a powerful begin to their IPL 2025 marketing campaign, securing two wins in as many matches. The newest triumph got here towards Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK) at Chepauk on March 28, marking their first victory on the iconic venue since 2008. Dominating with each bat and ball, RCB posted a formidable 196/7 earlier than limiting CSK to 146/8, claiming a complete 50-run win. Talking on his podcast, “AB de Villiers 360”, the previous RCB celebrity analysed the workforce’s transformation because the 2025 mega public sale.

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“The steadiness of the RCB squad is 10 instances higher in comparison with earlier seasons…On the (IPL) public sale (final yr), I spoke about RCB needing steadiness. It isn’t concerning the bowlers, batters or fielders… it is about having a sound steadiness in IPL groups and choices,” de Villiers stated.

RCB made daring choices, opting to not use the Proper to Match (RTM) card for long-serving gamers Mohammed Siraj and Glenn Maxwell. As a substitute, they invested in rebuilding their core, including depth to each batting and bowling departments.

One of many standout acquisitions was Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood, who joined the facet for a hefty Rs 12.50 crore after an intense bidding conflict with Mumbai Indians. Hazlewood’s exact management and expertise make him a worthwhile asset to RCB’s bowling lineup. One other important addition was Phil Salt, the ICC’s No. 3 ranked T20I batter, secured for Rs 11.50 crore after beating competitors from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Salt, instrumental in KKR’s title-winning marketing campaign final season, is predicted so as to add firepower on the high.

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RCB additionally made a sensible transfer by buying Jitesh Sharma, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, for Rs 11 crore. Jitesh’s explosive hitting functionality and skill to complete video games shall be essential in tight conditions. Moreover, the skilled Indian seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar returned to RCB after leaving Sunrisers Hyderabad, including stability within the demise overs alongside Hazlewood and Yash Dayal.

With Rajat Patidar main the workforce and the emergence of Devdutt Padikkal as a dependable run-getter, RCB’s transformation from a star-studded but inconsistent facet to a well-balanced unit is clear. De Villiers believes that this newfound steadiness might lastly assist the franchise break their IPL title drought.