Aoba Tanaka 
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Faf du Plessis expressed satisfaction with the franchise’s strategic moves in the IPL 2024 auction, gearing up for an exciting season. RCB, known for its formidable batting lineup, made significant additions to both batting and bowling departments, aiming for an improved performance at home.
The team acquired Australia’s all-rounder Cameron Green in a trade with Mumbai Indians, fortifying the top order alongside du Plessis, Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, and Rajat Patidar. RCB’s focus on strengthening the bowling attack was evident with the hefty ₹11.5 crore investment in West Indian pacer Alzarri Joseph. The squad further enhanced its bowling options by bringing in New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson for ₹2 crore and England’s Tom Curran for ₹1.5 crore.
Du Plessis emphasized the franchise’s commitment to building a side capable of delivering improved performances at their home ground during IPL 2024. Reflecting on the team’s away success in the previous season, he highlighted the strategic planning behind the auction acquisitions to achieve optimal balance.
“After the last season, we felt like we needed to improve at home. One of the things that we did really well was to succeed away from Chinnaswamy. So, we put our heads together and planned on how we can get better, in what ways can we improve? It’s definitely the auction (way to improve),” said du Plessis.
The franchise, completing a 25-member squad, also secured Indian left-arm pacer Yash Dayal (₹5 crore), spin all-rounder Swapnil Singh (₹20 lacs), and wicketkeeper Saurav Chauhan (₹20 lakh) from Gujarat Giants. Du Plessis praised the squad’s depth and the strong top order, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive planning for the team’s success.
RCB head coach Andy Flower echoed du Plessis’ sentiments, expressing contentment with the acquisitions. Flower highlighted the strength of the top four, including du Plessis, Kohli, Patidar, and Maxwell, and the addition of Cameron Green, providing power to the top five.
As RCB prepares for IPL 2024, the franchise’s fans await an exciting and competitive season with the well-balanced squad assembled through strategic planning and successful auction moves.
