RCB Strengthens Squad with Key Players Ahead of IPL Showdown Against KKR
RCB Welcomes Back Key Players for Crucial IPL Matches
New Delhi: The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are gearing up for a crucial match against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) this Saturday, as they aim for a direct path to the playoffs in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). The team has received a significant boost with the return of overseas finishers Tim David and Romario Shepherd, who have rejoined the squad just in time for this pivotal clash.
Tim David has been instrumental in RCB's late-game performances this season, enhancing a middle-order that has shown great potential. His return adds depth to the batting lineup. Meanwhile, Romario Shepherd, a West Indies allrounder, brings not only batting strength but also valuable bowling options, although his full availability for the playoffs remains uncertain.
Shepherd's situation is precarious. After achieving one of the fastest fifties in IPL history with a remarkable 14-ball 53* against the Chennai Super Kings, he has been selected for the West Indies ODI teams facing Ireland (May 21–25) and England (starting May 29), which coincides with the IPL playoffs.
The exact date of his departure is still unknown, leaving RCB hopeful that he can participate in at least the concluding league matches.
In addition, England's dynamic trio — Jacob Bethell, Liam Livingstone, and Phil Salt — have also arrived in Bengaluru. Among them, Phil Salt's return is particularly noteworthy. The explosive opener has been in exceptional form this season and is expected to remain available until the tournament's conclusion, as his call-up for the T20I series against the West Indies does not begin until June 6, after the IPL wraps up.
Livingstone, known for his big-hitting and useful spin bowling, is back in the mix and may play in the final matches depending on the team's needs.
Conversely, Jacob Bethell's time with RCB will be limited. The 20-year-old is set to play only two matches, including the home game against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 23, before returning to England for their white-ball series in the Caribbean. Consequently, he will miss RCB's last league match against the Lucknow Super Giants on May 27.
The timing of RCB's overseas reinforcements is crucial, especially with two key fast bowlers, Josh Hazlewood and Lungi Ngidi, still sidelined. Hazlewood is recuperating from a minor shoulder issue and is under the care of Cricket Australia's medical team. While his injury is not deemed serious, RCB is still awaiting final clearance.
He has already been included in Australia's squad for the World Test Championship final set to begin on June 11 at Lord’s, indicating that his long-term fitness is on track.
Ngidi, who stepped in for Hazlewood against CSK on May 3, has also been named in South Africa's WTC final squad, complicating his availability for the IPL's concluding stages.