The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been chasing their maiden IPL title for 18 long seasons. With the 2025 IPL campaign in full swing, former Chennai Super Kings star Suresh Raina feels this could be the year the RCB finally break the jinx and lift the coveted trophy.
Suresh Raina Backs RCB’s Title Hopes
Raina praised RCB’s bowling attack and team spirit as key reasons behind their strong showing this season. Speaking on Star Sports, the ex-CSK batsman said, “RCB is playing in a different league this year. Their bowlers have defended scores as low as 136 and 150 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, which is no small feat.”
He also highlighted the impact of the new captaincy, pointing out the team’s wins over his former side, Chennai Super Kings, as evidence of their growing strength.
Bowling: The Backbone of RCB’s Success
One of the standout performers for RCB this IPL has been Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood, who has taken 18 wickets in 10 matches. Hazlewood’s ability to adapt to different pitches has made him a strong contender for the Purple Cap. Although he missed the last match due to a shoulder injury, South African fast bowler Lungi Ngidi stepped in with an impressive three-wicket haul.
Player availability will be crucial for RCB’s playoff push. Unlike some franchises that will lose key foreign players for the World Test Championship final, RCB still have a strong foreign core including Phil Salt, Tim David, and Liam Livingstone.
Dressing Room Unity Fuels Confidence
Beyond on-field performances, Raina pointed to RCB’s positive dressing room atmosphere as a major factor. “The dressing room is positive, and these are signs of a team that can go all the way,” he remarked. With strong leadership and team spirit, RCB might just have the edge this season.
Challenges Ahead for Other Franchises
Several other IPL teams face hurdles with player availability ahead of playoffs. Delhi Capitals will be without stars like Mitchell Starc, Gujarat Titans will miss Jos Buttler, and Punjab Kings will have to cope without Marco Jansen. This gives RCB a potential advantage as they head into the critical phase of the tournament.
Looking Forward: IPL 2025 Playoffs and Beyond
As IPL 2025 resumes, all eyes will be on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to see if they can translate promise into silverware. Fans can stay updated on theipl-2025-suspendedipl-2025-suspended and track the latest points table as the race to the playoffs intensifies.
Conclusion
With a potent bowling attack, a motivated squad, and the backing of cricket pundits like Suresh Raina, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are poised for a historic IPL 2025 season. Could this finally be Virat Kohli’s year to lead RCB to their first title? The coming weeks promise thrilling cricket action and answers.
