RCB’s aspirations have taken a major hit, as injuries and national team duties raise uncertainty over the availability of key players for the crucial final phase of the tournament.
RCB’s IPL 2025 Title Dreams Teeter on the Edge
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are at a crossroads in their quest for the elusive IPL 2025 trophy. After a 17-year wait for glory, their campaign, which showed early promise, is now under threat from injuries and player absences. With the season resuming on May 17 after a pause due to India-Pakistan tensions, RCB must navigate a tough road ahead to keep their title hopes alive.
Critical Matches Loom Large
With only three league games left, RCB’s playoff chances hinge on their upcoming fixtures, starting with a high-stakes showdown against Kolkata Knight Riders this Saturday. Every match is a do-or-die battle, but the team’s preparations have been rocked by a series of setbacks that could define their season.
Injuries Take a Toll
RCB’s batting lineup has been hit hard by the loss of Devdutt Padikkal, sidelined with a hamstring injury. The top-order star’s absence leaves a gap in the team’s firepower. Meanwhile, fast bowler Josh Hazlewood’s shoulder injury, sustained before the May 3 clash against Chennai Super Kings, casts doubt on his return. Although named in Australia’s ICC World Test Championship final squad for June 11, his fitness remains a question mark.
Adding to the worries, captain Rajat Patidar’s injury during the CSK game has raised concerns. After missing a key training session before the canceled Lucknow Super Giants match, his availability is uncertain, especially with India’s Test tour of England and a shadow squad tour on the horizon.
Overseas Stars Depart at Crucial Moment
RCB’s challenges don’t end with injuries. Key overseas players Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell have left for England’s ODI series against West Indies, starting May 29, which overlaps with the IPL playoffs. With a T20I series kicking off on June 6, RCB risks losing more international talent at the tournament’s climax.
The departure of West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd, a standout in RCB’s victory over CSK, further complicates matters. Called up for West Indies’ series against Ireland starting May 21, his availability for the IPL’s final stages is in serious doubt.
A Test of Resilience
As RCB gears up for the critical phase of IPL 2025, the team’s depth and resolve will be put to the ultimate test. With injuries and departures threatening to unravel their campaign, the Royal Challengers must rally to keep their dream of lifting the trophy alive.
