Why Jitesh Sharma? RCB’s Bold INR 11 Cr Purchase in IPL 2025 Auction
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is a popular IPL franchise. It’s often criticized for its poor auction strategies. In the IPL 2025 auction, RCB looked more organized. They addressed weaknesses in their squad.
Despite their impressive acquisitions, one move raised questions. Fans and experts were unsure about RCB’s decision to buy Jitesh Sharma, a wicketkeeper-batter, for INR 11 Cr. Jitesh adds flexibility and power to the lower order. But, some think RCB could have found better options. Here’s why they bought him and three players who might have been stronger picks.
Why Did RCB Buy Jitesh Sharma?
RCB’s struggles with a top-heavy batting lineup have been a recurring issue. Once the top order collapses, the middle and lower order often fail to maintain momentum. RCB targeted Jitesh Sharma, an Indian wicketkeeper-batter, to fix this. He is known for his finishing skills.
Jitesh, a proven IPL power-hitter, is a flexible lower-order batsman. He adds depth to the batting. Also, as a domestic player, he frees up overseas slots for RCB to fill with key roles. By investing in Jitesh, RCB solved multiple problems in one move.
However, despite his potential, RCB may have missed better options at similar or slightly higher prices. Here are three wicketkeepers they could have targeted instead.
3 Better Wicketkeepers RCB Could Have Chosen
1.KL Rahul
Sold to: Delhi Capitals (INR 14 Cr)
Why He’s Better: KL Rahul was INR 3 Cr more expensive than Jitesh. But, his experience and consistency make him a better choice. Rahul has a proven track record as a top-order batter and a reliable wicketkeeper. Having been part of RCB in the past, his chemistry with Virat Kohli could be an advantage. It could create a great opening pair for IPL 2025.
2.Josh Inglis
Sold to: Punjab Kings (INR 2.60 Cr)
Why He’s Better: Australian keeper Josh Inglis came at a bargain price compared to Jitesh. A dynamic batter, Inglis could have replaced him for less. That would have saved RCB money to improve other areas of the team. His ability to adapt would have stabilized RCB’s batting lineup.
3.Ishan Kishan
Sold to: Sunrisers Hyderabad (INR 11.25 Cr)
Why He’s Better: Ishan Kishan, another Indian wicketkeeper-batter, received a sale price of INR 25 Lakhs more than Jitesh Sharma. Known for his explosive starts, Ishan could have bolstered RCB’s top order. With Ishan opening, RCB could have picked an overseas middle-order batter, like Will Jacks. Instead, they chose Phil Salt as an opener.
Did RCB Make the Right Call with Jitesh Sharma?
Jitesh Sharma’s acquisition fills some gaps in RCB’s lineup. But, the team may have missed out on better players. Options like Ishan Kishan, Josh Inglis, or KL Rahul had proven skills. In some cases, they were better value for money.
The success of RCB’s decision will ultimately depend on Jitesh’s performance in IPL 2025. For now, fans and analysts remain divided on whether this bold move will pay off.
Key Highlights:
Jitesh Sharma Price: INR 11 Cr
Other Key Purchases: Phil Salt, INR 5.5 Cr (Opener)
Alternatives Sold:
Ishan Kishan (INR 11.25 Cr, SRH)
Josh Inglis (INR 2.60 Cr, PBKS)
KL Rahul (INR 14 Cr, DC)
