IPL 2025: How RCB finally cracked the playoff code!

With the IPL 2025 playoffs nearly locked in, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have emerged as one of the season’s biggest turnarounds — and here's how they did it:

Auction Gold: Tim David & Jitesh Sharma

RCB played their cards smart at the mega auction — picking up Tim David (₹3 Cr) and Jitesh Sharma (₹11 Cr).

Tim David: 186 runs | Avg: 93.00 | SR: 193.75

Jitesh Sharma: 128 runs | SR: 142.22 | Safe hands behind the stumps

Result: RCB finally found their finishers and added lethal depth to the middle order.

Backing Indian Talent

RCB has broken their old habit of over-relying on overseas stars. Under new skipper Rajat Patidar, the team has given key roles to local talents like Krunal Pandya, Devdutt Padikkal, and Yash Dayal.

Result: A more balanced, cohesive team with strong domestic firepower.

Experience in the Death: Hazlewood & Bhuvi

The death overs, once RCB’s Achilles’ heel, are now their strength thanks to:

Josh Hazlewood: 18 wickets | Avg: 17.27 | Econ: 8.44

Bhuvneshwar Kumar: 12 wickets | Avg: 28.25 | Econ: 8.92

Result: Calm under pressure and a tight grip in crunch moments.

The Takeaway:

Smart buys. Homegrown belief. Veteran control.

These 3 moves have reshaped RCB's identity in IPL 2025 — and they’re not just aiming for playoffs anymore. They're gunning for the trophy.