RCB Faces Tough Start with Spin Woes Ahead of IPL 2025

KOLKATA, India — The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will kick off their IPL 2025 season on March 21, 2025, facing the Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. As they prepare for this crucial opening match, questions loom over RCB’s spin-bowling capabilities in conditions that typically favor spin.

RCB has recruited an experienced left-arm orthodox spinner, but with an Indian Premier League (IPL) economy rate of 7.36 and an average of 34.28, he is viewed more as a defensive option rather than a match-winner. This choice highlights the strategic challenge RCB faces, especially with seven home matches scheduled at the spin-friendly M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Head coach Gary Flower acknowledged the skepticism regarding the strength of RCB’s spin unit. However, he expressed confidence in their prospects, citing Krunal Pandya‘s experience and leadership as vital for the team’s success in this department. “Krunal was a significant part of our targeted players in the auction. He’s a smart and courageous cricketer who brings class as a left-arm spinner and versatility as an all-rounder,” Flower said.

The roster also includes wrist-spinner Suyash Sharma, who enters his third IPL season with only 13 matches under his belt. After struggling for game time last year, he is now positioned to take a leading role at RCB. Flower noted the importance of managing expectations for Suyash, acknowledging he won’t become a star overnight. “On the wrist-spin front, Suyash is a very exciting young prospect with limited experience but has a really high ceiling,” Flower stated.

Further complicating RCB’s spin strategy is the presence of part-timer Liam Livingstone, offering additional insurance in case of unfavorable match situations. Flower highlighted the depth of experience within the squad, including players like Swapnil Singh, who performed admirably last season.

Despite the challenges with spin bowling, RCB’s fast-bowling lineup features strong talents including Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Lungi Ngidi, Nuwan Thushara, and Rasikh Salam. Flower believes this blend of experienced seamers and emerging quicks will bolster the bowling attack. “Having influential people in your squad that have performed at the top level gives them a level of confidence. Our bowling attack includes Hazlewood, Bhuvi [Bhuvneshwar Kumar], Yash, and Krunal, all capable of making pivotal tactical decisions during matches,” he commented.

While RCB faces a tough path ahead, including matches against strong opponents, Flower remains optimistic. Addressing the daunting challenge of starting against the defending champions—Kolkata Knight Riders—he cheekily suggested the pressure lies more with them. “Yes, it is very daunting. For KKR!” he said, hoping for a thrilling clash in what he called an “El-Classico.”