RCB Seeks Overseas Wicketkeepers Like Josh Inglis And Phil Salt In IPL 2025 Auction

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are gearing up for the Indian Premier League (IPL) Mega Auction on November 24 and 25. They aim to fill 22 slots, with a focus on acquiring a wicketkeeper-batter. This need arises after Dinesh Karthik's retirement post-IPL 2024, as he transitions into a mentorship and batting coach role with RCB.

RCB released Anuj Rawat, their other wicketkeeper from the 2024 squad, intensifying their search for a new wicketkeeper at the upcoming auction in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. All ten teams will engage in competitive bidding during this two-day event.

1. Josh Inglis: The Australian wicketkeeper-batter is a strong contender to replace Karthik due to his versatile batting skills. Inglis can bat anywhere in the order and is known for his finishing ability, which RCB will miss without Karthik.

Inglis has not played in the IPL yet but brings extensive T20 experience from playing for Australia and leagues like the Big Bash League (BBL) and Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA. He has scored 679 runs in 26 T20Is at a strike rate of 160.14.

2. Phil Salt: The English wicketkeeper-batter has previously played in the IPL for Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders. Although he doesn't keep wickets for England, he does so for league teams and offers an opening option.

Salt recently hit his third T20I century and will attract interest from many teams, including KKR. In 34 T20Is, he has scored 1047 runs at a strike rate of 167.52, making him a potential opening partner for Kohli at RCB.

3. Quinton de Kock: The South African has past experience with RCB and could be an ideal left-handed opening partner for Kohli. De Kock was recently released by Lucknow Super Giants, who retained Nicholas Pooran as their wicketkeeper.

De Kock's previous IPL performances make him a sought-after player, with Mumbai Indians also likely interested. His return to RCB could strengthen their lineup significantly.

4. Jos Buttler: Released by Rajasthan Royals, England's white-ball captain is expected to be one of the top picks at the auction due to his impressive IPL record over recent seasons.

Buttler is an opening option with seven IPL centuries to his name and will likely spark bidding wars among teams. His inclusion would be beneficial for RCB as well as other interested franchises.

5. Ryan Rickelton: As a South African wicketkeeper-batter, Rickelton offers an affordable option among quality players who can open in T20s alongside Kohli at RCB.

Lack of experience playing in India might hinder his chances of securing an IPL deal, but his T20 stats are impressive: 2675 runs in 103 matches with a strike rate of 138.31 and 82 sixes hit in T20s during 2024.

The auction presents numerous options for RCB to consider as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of IPL 2025. With several talented wicketkeepers available, they have opportunities to make strategic acquisitions that align with their goals.