The Indian Premier League (IPL) is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season with its mega auction scheduled in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24 and 25. With retention lists finalized, all 10 franchises are looking at new strategies and players to strengthen their squads. A notable team in focus is Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who have yet to lift the IPL trophy despite coming close several times.
RCB has retained Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal, signaling a possible rebuild for the team. Even though RCB has always had a solid batting lineup featuring legends like Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle, they have often struggled with their bowling depth. One player who could address this gap is English pacer Jofra Archer. Here’s why RCB should consider Archer for the upcoming season:
1. Archer’s Raw Pace and Threatening Presence
Jofra Archer’s pace sets him apart, making him a challenging bowler for batters to face. His sheer speed can take the pitch conditions out of the equation, which is crucial on batting-friendly surfaces like Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Known for flat pitches and short boundaries, Bengaluru has proven difficult for bowlers, but Archer’s aggression and accuracy could make him a game changer.
Archer is close to full fitness and has returned to England’s white-ball team. This momentum could be the right boost for RCB as they look to enhance their bowling lineup.
2. Performance Under Pressure
RCB’s search for a match-winning bowler could end with Archer. He’s shown time and again that he can excel in high-pressure moments, such as in the 2019 World Cup final, where he bowled a nerve-racking Super Over to clinch victory for England. RCB could greatly benefit from a player who remains calm and delivers under intense situations, especially as they aim to end their title drought.
With Archer’s skill set, which includes fast bouncers and well-placed yorkers, he could be RCB’s X-factor bowler in tough games.
3. Batting Ability as a Bonus
Although primarily a bowler, Archer’s ability to strike big shots with the bat could provide a strategic advantage. In the 2020 IPL, he demonstrated his power by hitting four sixes in one over against Chennai Super Kings while playing for Rajasthan Royals. If Archer joins RCB, his capability as a pinch hitter could prove valuable, especially in tight matches or when quick runs are required in the death overs.
RCB’s Next Steps
Adding Archer to the squad could be the missing piece RCB needs to secure their first-ever IPL title. His unique bowling style, combined with his handy batting, can provide the depth RCB needs to finally make it to the top.
Also Read: IPL 2025 Mega Auction: 3 Teams Likely To Bid For Mustafizur Rahman
