On March 12, 2022, Virat Kohli, the former skipper of RCB, announced that Faf du Plessis would take over as the new captain for the team in the upcoming 2022 edition of the league. This transition marks a significant change, including a shift in team colors for du Plessis, who was acquired by RCB for INR 7 crore in the IPL 2022 Mega Auction. Starting his IPL journey with CSK, du Plessis played a pivotal role in their 2021 Finals victory, scoring 86 runs and earning the Player of the Match award. While his stint with Punjab Kings was short-lived, his consistent performances for CSK showcased his batting prowess and versatility as a leg-spinner and fielder, making him a complete T20 package for any captain.
Prior to the commencement of the 14th edition of the league, Virat Kohli declared that this season would mark his final stint as RCB’s Captain. Taking charge as RCB’s full-time captain in 2013, he led them in 140 matches, securing victories in 66 and facing 70 defeats. Additionally, the former RCB Skipper assured fans of his enduring loyalty to the franchise. He was selected in the IPL draft before the IPL 2022 mega auction for INR 15 crores. Known as the Run Machine, Kohli’s prowess in scoring massive centuries has captivated the cricketing world, establishing him as a dominant force in modern cricket.
Anuj Rawat, an uncapped wicketkeeper-batsman born in Uttarakhand, caught RCB’s attention at the IPL 2022 Mega Auction, fetching INR 3.4 crore on Day 1. Making his First-Class debut for Delhi against Assam, Rawat showcased his batting prowess by scoring 71 runs from 147 balls at No. 7, including seven fours and a six. With 925 runs in 19 First-Class games at an average of 34.25, including two centuries and three half-centuries, the 22-year-old is a promising investment for RCB. Rawat’s ability with the bat and versatility as a finisher make him a valuable addition to the team. Prior to this, he was bought by Rajasthan Royals in 2021.
Dinesh Karthik, an experienced wicketkeeper-batsman, has led Kolkata Knight Riders to playoffs in 2018 and their fifth-place finish in 2019. Released by KKR ahead of the 2022 league, he was picked up by RCB for INR 5.5 crore in the IPL Mega Auction. A veteran of all IPL editions since 2008, this marks his second stint with RCB, having been acquired for Rs 10.5 crore in 2015. Karthik has represented six IPL teams, starting with Delhi Daredevils in 2008, then moving to Kings XI Punjab in 2011, followed by two seasons with Mumbai Indians and a return to Delhi in 2014. After RCB in 2015, he played for Gujarat Lions in 2016-17 before joining KKR for four seasons. His IPL career tally of 4046 runs at a strike rate of 129.72, combined with his skills behind the stumps, underscores his value to any team.
Suyash, a 24-year-old cricketer, made his First-Class debut for Goa in 2018. RCB secured his services for INR 30 lakhs during the IPL 2022 Mega Auction. To date, Suyash has participated in 22 T20 matches (Syed Mushtaq Ali), accumulating 443 runs at a strike rate of 148. He is ready to showcase his bold playing style with RCB.
Glenn Maxwell, the dynamic all-rounder, was among the three players retained by RCB for IPL 2022, securing a contract worth INR 11 crores. His outstanding performance in the 2021 season saw him accumulate 513 runs in 15 matches at a strike rate of 144.10, showcasing his prowess as a destructive batsman. Maxwell’s ability to light up the game with power hitting and fielding skills has always made him a sought-after player at IPL auctions. With his off-spin bowling, he adds versatility to any team’s lineup and has previously excelled with Kings XI Punjab in 2014. After a stint with RCB, he returns to Punjab Kings, acquired for INR 10.75 crore in a bid to bolster their squad.
Originally from Rajasthan, Mahipal Lomror gained prominence due to his performances as a spin-bowling all-rounder in India’s Under 19 team. In the 2021 IPL season, his notable highlight was a quick 43 off 17 balls. RCB secured his services for INR 95 lakhs in the 2022 Mega Auction. Having honed his skills in the junior domestic circuit, Mahipal gained exposure at the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2016 in Bangladesh. Initially signed by Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) for IPL’s ninth season, he later joined Rajasthan Royals. Despite limited appearances in IPL 2019 and 2020, Rajasthan Royals retained him for IPL 2021.
Karn Sharma has been a consistent presence in the IPL, although his performances have had their share of fluctuations. He was acquired at his base price of INR 50 lakhs during the 2022 Mega Auction. Making his IPL debut in 2013 with Sunrisers Hyderabad, he impressed with 11 wickets in his first season and was the second-highest wicket-taker in 2014 with 15 wickets. He continued to have a decent run in 2015 and was part of title-winning teams in 2016 and 2017 with Hyderabad and Mumbai respectively. Despite a successful stint with Mumbai Indians in 2017, he was released and picked up by CSK for their spin department. However, he struggled to secure a regular spot in the playing XI. Now, in 2022, Karn Sharma is set to join RCB and is ready to Play Bold.
Manoj Bhandage is a promising cricketer from India known for his skills as a left-arm spinner. Born on June 5, 1997, Bhandage has shown potential in domestic cricket with his ability to spin the ball and maintain control over his deliveries. He made his debut in List A cricket in 2019 and has since been recognized for his economical bowling and knack for picking up crucial wickets. Bhandage’s performances in domestic matches have caught the attention of selectors, and he is seen as a player with the potential to make an impact at higher levels of the game.
Akash Deep, a 25-year-old cricketer from Bengal, entered the first-class arena in 2019. RCB secured his services for his base price of INR 20 lakhs. With 21 T20 matches to his credit, he has taken 26 wickets. Akash Deep is ready to showcase his bold playing style with RCB.
Mohammed Siraj, one of Team India’s premier fast bowlers, has consistently impressed with his performances. His prowess with both the red and white ball has garnered attention, leading to his retention by RCB for INR 7 crores in the 2022 season. Hailing from Hyderabad, Siraj made waves in 2017 when Sunrisers Hyderabad acquired him for INR 2.60 crore. Despite humble beginnings as the son of an auto-rickshaw driver, Siraj’s rapid rise in cricket is remarkable. He transitioned to leather ball cricket in 2015 and quickly earned a spot in the national team within two years of domestic cricket. Known for his wicket-taking abilities, Siraj was Hyderabad’s highest wicket-taker in the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy season and had a successful debut IPL season with 10 wickets in six games. Recognizing his potential, RCB acquired him at the IPL 2018 Player Auction for INR 2.20 crore.
Reece Topley is an English cricketer known for his left-arm fast-medium bowling. Born on February 21, 1994, Topley has represented England in various formats of the game. He made his international debut in 2015 and has since been recognized for his ability to swing the ball and pick up crucial wickets. Topley has also been a part of domestic cricket in England, playing for teams like Essex and Surrey. His height and left-arm angle provide a unique challenge to batsmen, making him a valuable asset in limited-overs cricket. Topley continues to be a promising talent in English cricket.
Rajan Kumar is a talented cricketer known for his skills on the field. He hails from India and has been making waves in domestic cricket circuits. As a right-arm fast bowler, Kumar has the ability to generate pace and trouble batsmen with his deliveries. His dedication and hard work have earned him recognition as a promising prospect in Indian cricket. Kumar’s performances in various formats of the game have caught the attention of selectors and fans alike, making him a player to watch out for in the future.