Will RCB retain Virat Kohli ahead of the IPL 2025 auction?

As always, Virat Kohli is once again among the top contenders for the Orange Cap in the 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). With an impressive record of 741 runs from 15 games, Kohli currently holds the Orange Cap in IPL 2024.

His performance includes two half-centuries and one century, demonstrating his exceptional form. Kohli is gearing up for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with reports suggesting he may open the innings alongside Indian captain Rohit Sharma.

Looking ahead to the IPL 2025 mega auction, it might be the perfect time for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to undergo a significant overhaul.

However, this doesn’t imply that Kohli should not be retained. On the contrary, Kohli should undoubtedly be the first name on their retention list.

RCB’s failure to secure an IPL trophy so far cannot be pinned on Kohli. He has consistently given his best for the franchise and remains the only active player in league history to have been with the same team since its inception in 2008.

Kohli is as much an icon for RCB as MS Dhoni is for the Chennai Super Kings, if not more. At 35, he remains one of the primary reasons for RCB’s loyal fanbase and their enduring hope of breaking their 16-year-long title drought. Losing Kohli would be a strategic and marketing blunder for the dedicated fan base for the franchise.

One can only imagine the uproar if RCB were to release Kohli, considering the backlash that followed Rohit Sharma’s removal as Mumbai Indians’ captain.

If RCB are to retain four players, the following would be prime candidates:

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Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli, the undisputed star of RCB, is a guaranteed retention. He concluded IPL 2024 in prolific form, scoring 741 runs.

Will Jacks

Will Jacks has emerged as a key player for RCB this season. The young English batter is known for his power-hitting, which the IPL witnessed this season.

Yash Dayal

Yash Dayal was acquired by RCB in the IPL 2024 auction. Despite a challenging previous season with Gujarat Titans, Dayal has reinvented himself at RCB.

Mohammed Siraj

Mohammed Siraj, a seasoned performer for RCB, had a moderate season but remains a crucial part of their lineup.

By retaining these key players, RCB can maintain a strong core while preparing for future success.