The IPL 2025 mega auction is done. RCB made smart moves to build a strong team for the new season. RCB, known for poor auctions, took a more calculated approach this time. They secured key players to fill critical gaps in their squad.
They notably signed three players from the Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2024. Here’s a closer look at Tim David, Nuwan Thushara, and Romario Shepherd, who are now set to don the RCB jersey.
1.Tim David: A Power-Hitting Return to RCB
The Australian power-hitter Tim David has returned to the IPL’s team that first introduced him to it. David played 34 matches for Mumbai Indians, scoring 658 runs. He had a strike rate of 171.40 and an average of 29.90.
In IPL 2024, Mumbai Indians acquired David for INR 8.25 crore. However, his salary fell in the 2025 mega auction. RCB secured him for INR 3 crore—a 64% drop. Despite the pay cut, David’s quick runs in the middle and death overs make him vital to RCB’s batting lineup.
2.Nuwan Thushara: A Key Addition to RCB’s Death Bowling
Sri Lankan pacer Nuwan Thushara joined Mumbai Indians for INR 4.80 crore in IPL 2024. Thushara, known for his death-over skills, took eight wickets in seven matches. His economy rate was 9.88. However, his overall impact fell short of MI’s expectations, leading to his release.
RCB seized the chance to boost their bowling. They bought Thushara for INR 1.60 crore, a 67% cut in his IPL salary. With a more balanced bowling unit in place, Thushara is expected to play a crucial role in the death overs for RCB.
3.Romario Shepherd: A Big Boost to RCB’s Lower Order
Guyanese all-rounder Romario Shepherd was in the IPL 2024 Mumbai Indians squad. He was a lower-order finisher and bowler. Shepherd scored 57 runs in five matches, with a strike rate of 271.40. He struggled with the ball, taking one wicket in 13 overs at an economy rate of 13.25.
Despite his poor bowling, RCB saw Shepherd as key. They wanted to strengthen their lower-order batting. They acquired him for INR 1.5 crore, marking a massive 200% salary increase compared to his IPL 2024 contract. Shepherd’s explosive batting and bowling could be key to RCB’s IPL 2025 success.
RCB’s Strategy in IPL 2025 Auction
RCB have filled key gaps by signing Tim David, Nuwan Thushara, and Romario Shepherd. They improve the middle and lower orders and the death bowling. Each player has unique strengths. They align with RCB’s goal to build a more balanced, versatile squad.
- Tim David: A reliable finisher with experience in high-pressure situations.
- Nuwan Thushara: A specialist in death-over bowling. He is expected to bolster RCB’s pace attack.
- Romario Shepherd: A power-hitting all-rounder capable of contributing with both bat and ball.
