The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) remains one of the most iconic franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), yet its journey toward securing a maiden title continues to be marked by frustration, heartbreak, and hope. With a roster that has boasted some of the biggest names in world cricket — including Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle — the team has always been a formidable force on paper, but translating that talent into silverware has remained an elusive dream. For 17 years, RCB has battled the highs and lows of the IPL, failing to convert its potential into a long-awaited title.
Despite appearing in three IPL finals without success, RCB’s journey continues to captivate fans and analysts alike. Their inability to lift the trophy has become one of the most talked-about aspects of the IPL’s storied history. As the franchise gears up for yet another season, the IPL 2025 season could prove to be a defining year — one that might finally bring an end to the title drought. However, RCB faces multiple challenges heading into the season, including a major leadership dilemma that could once again shape the outcome of their campaign.
RCB’s Leadership Crisis: What Does the Future Hold?
The 2025 season marks an important juncture in RCB’s history. Faf du Plessis, the South African captain who led the franchise through the 2023 and 2024 seasons, has now stepped away from the leadership role. With this change, RCB finds itself in a leadership limbo, unsure of who will take the reins in the crucial upcoming season. While du Plessis’s captaincy was marked by calmness and tactical acumen, the team’s failure to cross the finish line has left many wondering whether a new captain could bring a fresh perspective and guide the team to glory.
One of the most discussed possibilities among fans and analysts is the potential return of Virat Kohli to the captaincy. Kohli, who led RCB from 2013 to 2021, is one of the most iconic and successful players in IPL history, but his tenure as captain saw mixed results. Under his leadership, RCB reached the final on several occasions, but the team never quite managed to go all the way. Kohli’s passion, energy, and leadership style made him a fan favorite, but his leadership also witnessed several high-pressure moments that raised questions about his ability to lead the team to success.
Now, with du Plessis’s departure, the idea of Kohli returning as RCB’s captain is gaining traction. Many fans and cricket experts feel that Kohli’s return could inject a sense of urgency and pride into the team. His ability to rally the team and his understanding of RCB’s dynamics could provide the stability the franchise needs. However, the question remains — can Kohli deliver the IPL title that has eluded him for years?
Amid these leadership discussions, RCB has yet to officially name a new captain, and with the IPL 2025 season fast approaching, it’s likely that this decision will dominate the franchise’s narrative as it strives to reclaim its place as one of the IPL’s top teams.
The 2024 IPL: A Season of Promise and Disappointment
The 2024 IPL season brought a glimmer of hope for RCB fans, as the team experienced a strong resurgence after a slow start. The franchise found itself in a difficult position early in the tournament, languishing at the bottom of the points table. However, the team’s resilience and the stellar performances from key players helped them make an incredible comeback, as they clawed their way back into playoff contention.
Despite their mid-season revival, RCB’s playoff journey ended in disappointment. After fighting tooth and nail to make it to the playoffs, they were ousted in a thrilling Eliminator by Rajasthan Royals (RR). While RCB’s campaign showed that they were capable of competing with the best, their inability to close out big games once again exposed the flaws that have plagued them for years.
RCB’s struggles in key moments — particularly their inconsistency in the final overs of a match — have been a recurring theme throughout their history. Despite having a squad stacked with match-winners, RCB has often faltered when the pressure is at its peak. These setbacks, coupled with an apparent inability to make the right decisions during crucial moments, have led to a sense of frustration among RCB fans, many of whom are still holding out hope for a breakthrough.
Venkatesh Prasad’s Insight: Key to RCB’s Success in 2025
In an effort to break their 17-year IPL trophy drought, RCB needs to take a hard look at their approach, both on and off the field. During an insightful ‘Ask Me Anything’ session on X (formerly Twitter), former India coach and Karnataka cricket legend Venkatesh Prasad shared his perspective on what RCB must do to clinch their first-ever IPL title. Prasad, who has a deep understanding of Indian cricket and the challenges faced by IPL franchises, offered several crucial insights that could help RCB turn things around.
When asked about his suggestions for RCB’s title aspirations in IPL 2025, Prasad emphasized the importance of selecting players based on their current form rather than reputation. He said, “Play the best 11 according to form and a lot more.” This straightforward advice sheds light on one of RCB’s recurring issues: their tendency to stick with underperforming players based on past reputations or emotional attachments.
Prasad’s point is valid — RCB must be more ruthless in their selection process. IPL is a fast-paced tournament, and form is often the most reliable indicator of a player’s potential contribution in any given season. The franchise has, at times, held onto players who were struggling with their form, which has led to crucial points being dropped. The ability to make bold and clear-cut selections based purely on performance can help the team focus on individuals who are truly capable of making a difference on the field.
RCB’s failure to win the IPL title so far has often been attributed to inconsistent performances and the lack of a clear tactical approach during crucial moments of matches. In Prasad’s words, adaptability is key — RCB must understand the dynamics of each game and take calculated risks. Match-winning players need to be backed at the right time, and the team must not hesitate to drop those who are not contributing.
Tactical Decisions for IPL 2025: RCB’s Road to Glory
As the IPL 2025 season looms, RCB’s leadership and tactical decisions will be under intense scrutiny. With so many variables in play, RCB must focus on the following key areas to ensure a successful campaign:
1. Leadership Clarity
The captaincy issue needs to be resolved swiftly, as it will have a significant impact on the team’s morale and direction. Whether it’s Kohli’s return or the appointment of a new leader, the franchise must have a clear plan in place. Leadership clarity will also help foster a sense of unity and purpose among the squad.
2. Consistent Selection
As Venkatesh Prasad highlighted, the franchise must select players based on form and not past performances or reputation. RCB needs to field their best XI for every match, making tough decisions when necessary. This consistency in selection can help the team build momentum and cohesion.
3. Key Players Stepping Up
While RCB boasts some of the best players in the IPL, consistency and leadership from its stars are essential. Players like Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis, and Mohammad Siraj will need to lead by example, delivering match-winning performances when it matters most. Kohli, in particular, must elevate his leadership and batting consistency to guide RCB through high-pressure situations.
4. Strong Team Balance
The IPL is a long tournament, and RCB will need to manage player fatigue and injuries effectively. A balanced squad with match-winning bowlers and explosive batsmen will be vital to navigating the ups and downs of the tournament.
Can 2025 Be the Year for RCB?
The 2025 IPL season represents a significant opportunity for RCB. With leadership questions hanging in the balance and fresh challenges on the horizon, the team must step up and prove that they have what it takes to secure their first-ever IPL title. By taking Venkatesh Prasad’s advice to heart — focusing on form, adaptability, and key tactical decisions — RCB can finally break their title drought.
With a mix of experienced campaigners and exciting new talent, RCB’s 2025 campaign holds the promise of a fresh start and a new chapter in their IPL history. The journey toward glory will not be easy, but with the right leadership, consistent performances, and strategic decisions, 2025 could well be the year RCB finally lifts the coveted IPL trophy.
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