Image: Ashutosh Sharma has caught the eye of Royal Challengers Bengaluru / © The Indian Express
As the IPL 2025 auction approaches, franchises are strategizing to strengthen their squads, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have turned their attention to Ashutosh Sharma. The 26-year-old batter, who made headlines with his power-packed performances for Punjab Kings in IPL 2024, is now a strong contender to join RCB.
Ashutosh impressed last season with 189 runs in 11 matches at a remarkable strike rate of 167.25, establishing himself as a reliable finisher alongside Shashank Singh. Despite his stellar showing, Punjab Kings chose not to retain him, as they retained only two uncapped players ahead of the auction. Without the Right to Match (RTM) card, Punjab will have to compete in the bidding war to reacquire Sharma. Sharma showed some power packed positive batting in the death overs.
RCB, meanwhile, are on the hunt for a dependable finisher to address a gap left by Dinesh Karthik’s retirement. Despite trying various players in the role, the team has struggled to find consistent success in finishing Matches. Sharma’s ability to deliver under pressure makes him an ideal fit.
The conditions at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, with its short boundaries, further favour Sharma’s playing style. His knack for clearing the ropes could make him a vital cog in RCB’s lineup. With INR 83 crore in their purse, RCB are well-positioned to make a strong bid for him.
Having retained Virat Kohli (INR 21 crore), Rajat Patidar (INR 11 crore), and Yash Dayal (INR 5 crore), RCB has room to invest strategically in finishing power. If they secure Sharma, his explosive batting could play a pivotal role in the franchise’s quest for its elusive first IPL title.