RCB’s calm before the storm: Red Army build a balanced squad at the mini auction

Despite limited funds, Royal Challengers Bengaluru executed a calm and calculated mini auction strategy, winning key bidding battles, securing priority targets, and completing their squad with a mix of proven stars and promising youngsters.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) delivered one of the most disciplined and effective performances at the IPL mini auction, proving that a small purse does not necessarily limit ambition or impact. With controlled spending and clear planning, the Red Army management focused on value-for-money buys while staying committed to their pre-decided target list.

RCB entered the auction with financial constraints but showed remarkable patience throughout the bidding process. Instead of chasing flashy names, the franchise concentrated on players who fit their squad balance. This approach helped them pull off several “cheap and best” picks while also fighting hard for marquee targets.

Also Read:Karnataka reclaims National Energy Conservation Award 2025

The most intense battle of the auction involved Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). RCB went head-to-head with KKR in a high-stakes bidding war before eventually securing Venkatesh Iyer for ₹7 crore. The acquisition of the experienced Indian all-rounder adds depth and flexibility to RCB’s middle order.

One of the standout value buys of the auction was New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy. Despite being the world’s No.2 ranked T20 bowler, RCB managed to sign him for just ₹2 crore, strengthening their pace attack significantly. Another notable investment was Madhya Pradesh all-rounder Mangesh Yadav, who was bought for ₹5.20 crore.

RCB also surprised many with their bold youth-focused picks. The franchise snapped up 18-year-old Puducherry player Satvik Deswal at his base price of ₹30 lakh, marking him as one of the surprise selections of the mini auction. England’s young wicketkeeper-batsman Jordan Cox was also secured at base price, adding depth to the batting and keeping options.

Continuing their focus on future-ready talent, RCB invested in young all-rounders Vicky Otsal, Vihan Malhotra, who impressed in the Under-19 Asia Cup, and Kanishk Chauhan. These picks underline RCB’s intent to build a strong bench alongside their experienced core.

Also Read:Bengaluru water board deploys robots to modernise sewer inspections

At the end of the auction, RCB successfully filled all eight available slots while still managing to retain ₹25 lakh in their purse, an achievement that reflects precise planning and smart execution.

RCB Squad After the Mini Auction

Batting:

Rajat Patidar, Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Jitesh Sharma, Jordan Cox

All-Rounders:

Krunal Pandya, Swapnil Singh, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Jacob Bethell, Venkatesh Iyer, Satvik Deswal, Mangesh Yadav, Vicky Otsal, Vihan Malhotra, Kanishk Chauhan

Bowling Unit:

Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Dar, Suyash Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Nuwan Thushara, Abhinandan Singh, Jacob Duffy, Yash Dayal

With a balanced mix of experience, youth, and smart overseas picks, RCB walk away from the mini auction with a squad that looks deeper, more flexible, and better prepared for the challenges ahead.

Also Read:Karnataka seeks longer UDAN funding to sustain regional airports