Sports May 08, 2025 5 min read

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: The Bold Pursuit of IPL Glory

Bhavesh Tikyani

Editorial Team

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru: The Bold Pursuit of IPL Glory

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a global cricketing extravaganza, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), based in Bengaluru, Karnataka, is one of its most celebrated franchises. Founded in 2008 by United Spirits, RCB—formerly Royal Challengers Bangalore—is named after the liquor brand Royal Challenge and plays at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium (capacity: 32,000). Despite a star-studded history and a passionate fanbase chanting “Play Bold,” RCB remains without an IPL title, finishing as runners-up three times (2009, 2011, 2016). Valued at $117 million in 2024, RCB’s journey is a saga of resilience, blockbuster performances, and unfulfilled dreams. This blog explores RCB’s history, key players, achievements, challenges, and their 2025 season, highlighting their impact in Bengaluru, Bhilwara, and beyond.

Origins and Early Struggles (2008–2010)

RCB entered the IPL in 2008, acquired by Vijay Mallya’s United Spirits for $111.6 million, the second-highest bid. Led by Rahul Dravid, the team was branded a “Test XI” with veterans like Anil Kumble and Jacques Kallis, but struggled to adapt to T20’s pace, finishing seventh (4 wins, 28.57% win rate). The 2008 season saw tactical missteps, with Dravid and Wasim Jaffer opening against Punjab Kings’ 223, exposing a lack of depth. Mid-season, CEO Charu Sharma was sacked, and Martin Crowe resigned, signaling turmoil.

In 2009, Kevin Pietersen’s captaincy yielded a slow start (2 wins in 6 games), but Kumble’s takeover sparked a turnaround. Manish Pandey’s 114*—the first IPL century by an Indian—propelled RCB to the final, losing to Deccan Chargers by 6 runs. The 2010 season saw RCB reach the semi-finals, losing to Mumbai Indians by 35 runs, but a 9-wicket win over Deccan Chargers in the third-place playoff secured Champions League T20 qualification. Kumble retired after leading RCB to the CLT20 semi-finals, cementing his legacy.

The Kohli-Gayle Era: Near Misses (2011–2017)

The 2011 auction marked a turning point, with RCB retaining only Virat Kohli, the 2008 U-19 World Cup-winning captain, and acquiring stars like Tillakaratne Dilshan, Zaheer Khan, AB de Villiers, and Daniel Vettori, who became captain. A mid-season injury to Dirk Nannes led to Chris Gayle’s inclusion, igniting a seven-match winning streak. Gayle’s 608 runs (strike rate 183) earned him the Orange Cap, and RCB topped the league stage, defeating Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their final group match. However, CSK won the final by 58 runs. RCB also reached the 2011 CLT20 final, losing to MI.

From 2012 to 2015, RCB remained playoff contenders under Kohli’s captaincy (2013–2021). The 2016 season was their pinnacle, reaching the final with Kohli’s record-breaking 973 runs (4 centuries), the most in a single IPL edition. AB de Villiers’ 687 runs and Yuzvendra Chahal’s spin complemented a 144-run win over Gujarat Lions, the IPL’s largest margin. RCB finished second in the group stage and won Qualifier 1 against Gujarat Lions by 4 wickets at Chinnaswamy. However, Sunrisers Hyderabad won the final by 8 runs, leaving RCB as runners-up for the third time.

The 2017 season was a low, with RCB finishing last (3 wins), plagued by injuries to KL Rahul and Mitchell Starc. Posts on X later criticized RCB’s over-reliance on Kohli, Gayle, and de Villiers, with fans noting weak bowling as a recurring issue.

Rebuilding and Playoff Runs (2018–2023)

Ahead of 2018, RCB retained Kohli, de Villiers, and Sarfaraz Khan, adding Brendon McCullum, Quinton de Kock, and Chahal. Gary Kirsten joined as batting coach, with Ashish Nehra as bowling coach, but RCB finished sixth, missing playoffs. In 2019, acquisitions like Shivam Dube and Devdutt Padikkal, plus Dale Steyn replacing Nathan Coulter-Nile, couldn’t lift RCB beyond eighth place.

The 2020 season, under coach Mike Hesson, saw a resurgence, with RCB finishing fourth. Kohli’s 466 runs and Chahal’s 21 wickets led the charge, though a 6-wicket loss to SRH in the Eliminator ended their campaign. In 2021, Harshal Patel’s 32 wickets tied the IPL record, earning him an India call-up, but RCB lost to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Eliminator. The 2022 season saw Faf du Plessis as captain, with Kohli stepping down, and RCB reached the Qualifier 2, losing to Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 7 wickets.

In 2023, RCB missed playoffs, finishing sixth, despite Kohli’s 639 runs. Fans on X blamed management for poor auction choices, like overpaying for batting all-rounders while neglecting spinners.

Ownership Transition and Brand Power:

Initially owned by Vijay Mallya, RCB transitioned to United Spirits Limited (USL), a Diageo subsidiary, in 2016 after Mallya’s financial troubles. In 2023, USL formed Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL) to manage RCB’s operations, branding, and expansion into the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and esports. Led by CEO Hina Nagarajan, USL’s oversight has grown RCB’s brand value to $117 million (₹1,013 crore) in 2024, a 67% rise, driven by stars like Kohli and a 17.8-million Instagram following, overtaking CSK in 2025.

RCB’s fanbase, one of the IPL’s largest, spans Bengaluru to Bh Bhilwara, where fans don RCB jerseys and pack screenings, inspired by Kohli’s 8,000+ IPL runs. RCB’s social initiatives, like the Go Green campaign, resonate in Bhilwara’s schools, promoting sustainability.

The 2025 Season: A Bold Resurgence

IPL 2025 has seen RCB, led by new captain Rajat Patidar and coach Andy Flower, chase their maiden title with a revamped squad. Retaining Kohli, Patidar, and Yash Dayal, RCB spent ₹83 crore at the Jeddah auction, acquiring Phil Salt (₹11.5 crore), Jitesh Sharma (₹11 crore), Liam Livingstone (₹8.75 crore), and Josh Hazlewood (₹12.5 crore). Krunal Pandya’s 4-0-29-3 and Suyash Sharma’s clutch wickets powered a 7-wicket win over KKR in the opener, with Kohli’s 59* off 36 sealing a 175 chase.

RCB made history with six consecutive away wins, including a 6-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals, chasing 163, led by Kohli’s 50 and Pandya’s 50 off 38. A last-over thriller against CSK, where Yash Dayal defended 15 against Dhoni and Jadeja, secured a 2-run win, placing RCB atop the table with 16 points from 11 matches. However, a 3-wicket loss to Gujarat Titans and home struggles (1 win in 4 at Chinnaswamy) exposed inconsistencies. Kohli’s 505 runs lead the Orange Cap race, but fans on X criticize the lack of a premier spinner, with Suyash (economy 8.5) and Karn Sharma struggling.

Why RCB is so Popular Without Any Title (TROPHY):

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is a phenomenon in the Indian Premier League (IPL), commanding immense popularity despite not winning a single title in 17 seasons. Several factors explain this enduring appeal in just 350 words.

Star Power: RCB boasts cricketing icons like Virat Kohli, the IPL’s top run-scorer with over 8,000 runs, whose global fanbase drives viewership. Legends like Chris Gayle, with his record 175* off 66 balls in 2013, and AB de Villiers, known for his 360-degree batting, have delivered unforgettable performances. These stars attract fans even without trophies, as their brilliance—Kohli’s 973 runs in 2016 or Gayle’s 608 in 2011—creates lasting memories.

Passionate Fanbase: RCB’s “Play Bold” mantra resonates with millions, fueled by a loyal fanbase chanting at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium and beyond. With 17.8 million Instagram followers in 2025, RCB’s social media engagement rivals top franchises like Chennai Super Kings. Digital content like Bold Diaries and RCB Insider keeps fans connected, fostering a sense of community that transcends on-field results.

Bengaluru’s Cultural Hub: Based in Bengaluru, India’s tech capital, RCB taps into a cosmopolitan, cricket-crazy audience. The Chinnaswamy’s electric atmosphere, despite a 2025 home win rate of 25%, draws packed crowds, amplifying the team’s allure. Bengaluru’s diverse population spreads RCB’s fandom globally, sustaining popularity without silverware.

Brand Strength: Valued at $117 million in 2024, RCB’s brand, backed by United Spirits, thrives on high-profile sponsorships and merchandise sales. The red and gold jersey, worn by fans worldwide, symbolizes aspiration. Initiatives like the Go Green campaign align RCB with social causes, enhancing its appeal among younger audiences.

Resilient Narrative: RCB’s underdog story—three runner-up finishes (2009, 2011, 2016)—captivates fans. Close calls, like the 2016 final loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, fuel hope for a breakthrough. Posts on X highlight fans’ emotional investment, rooting for RCB’s “jinx” to end, making their journey relatable.

Entertainment Value: RCB’s batting-heavy approach delivers high-scoring thrillers, like 263/5 against Pune Warriors in 2013. Even in defeat, their aggressive style entertains, ensuring fans return. In 2025, Kohli’s 505 runs and six away wins keep the dream alive.

RCB’s popularity stems from its stars, passionate fans, Bengaluru’s vibe, strong branding, compelling narrative, and entertainment, proving trophies aren’t everything in the IPL’s emotional landscape.

Why People Are Saying Loyalty Equals to RCB:

The phrase “loyalty equals to RCB” has become a popular sentiment among IPL fans, particularly on platforms like X, due to the unwavering devotion of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s fanbase despite the team’s lack of an IPL title in 17 seasons. RCB’s “Play Bold” mantra and star players like Virat Kohli, who has stayed with the franchise since 2008 and scored over 8,000 runs, embody loyalty. Fans admire Kohli’s commitment, mirroring their own steadfast support through three runner-up finishes (2009, 2011, 2016) and lows like the 2017 last-place finish. The Yellow Army’s passion, filling M. Chinnaswamy Stadium and engaging with RCB’s 17.8 million Instagram followers, reflects this bond. Posts on X highlight fans enduring heartbreak yet chanting for RCB, equating their loyalty to the team’s resilience. In 2025, with Kohli’s 505 runs and six away wins, fans see loyalty as rooting for RCB’s elusive trophy, making the phrase a badge of emotional fidelity.

Key Players and Contributions

RCB’s legacy rests on iconic players:

Virat Kohli: The IPL’s top run-scorer (8,000+ runs), Kohli’s 973 runs in 2016 and 2024 Orange Cap (741 runs) make him RCB’s heart.
Chris Gayle: His 3,420 runs (2011–2017, strike rate 155) included the 2011 Orange Cap, transforming RCB’s batting.
AB de Villiers: With 4,391 runs, his 133 off 59 in 2015 remains a T20 benchmark.
Yuzvendra Chahal: RCB’s leading wicket-taker (139 wickets), his 2016 haul (21 wickets) was pivotal.
Rajat Patidar: The 2025 captain, his 50s in key chases show promise, though his leadership is under scrutiny.
Josh Hazlewood: His 4-0-22-1 in 2025’s opener highlights his value.

Strengths and Challenges

Strengths:

Batting Firepower: Kohli, Salt, Livingstone, and Jitesh ensure 200+ totals, with 9 batters scoring 50+ in 2025, a joint-IPL record.
Chinnaswamy Advantage: The batting-friendly pitch suits RCB’s aggressive style, though 2025’s 25% home win rate is a concern.
Fanbase: With 17.8 million Instagram followers, RCB’s global appeal rivals CSK, boosting revenue.
Coaching: Flower’s tactics and Dinesh Karthik’s batting mentorship add depth.

Challenges:

No IPL Title: Three runner-up finishes (2009, 2011, 2016) haunt RCB, with fans on X calling it a “jinx.”
Bowling Weakness: The lack of an elite spinner and over-reliance on Hazlewood and Dayal (economy 9+) hurt, as Harbhajan Singh noted.
Home Struggles: A 1-3 record at Chinnaswamy in 2025, compared to six away wins, puzzles analysts.
Auction Criticism: Spending ₹56 crore on batsmen left bowling thin, per X posts, risking imbalance.

The Pros and Cons of Associating With RCB

Pros

Star Power: RCB boasts icons like Virat Kohli (8,000+ runs), Rajat Patidar, and Josh Hazlewood, whose 2025 performances (Kohli’s 505 runs) draw global fans and sponsors.
Passionate Fanbase: With 17.8 million Instagram followers and the “Play Bold” mantra, RCB’s Yellow Army packs Chinnaswamy Stadium, creating an electric atmosphere and strong digital engagement.
Brand Strength: Valued at $117 million in 2024, RCB’s red and gold brand, backed by United Spirits, drives merchandise sales and sponsorships, rivaling top franchises like CSK.
Batting Firepower: RCB’s 2025 squad, including Phil Salt and Liam Livingstone, delivers 200+ totals, with 9 batters scoring 50+, ensuring thrilling, high-scoring matches.
Bengaluru’s Appeal: Based in India’s tech hub, RCB taps into a cosmopolitan audience, boosting tourism and fan events, amplified by initiatives like the Go Green campaign.
Coaching Expertise: Andy Flower’s tactics and Dinesh Karthik’s mentorship in 2025 enhance RCB’s strategic depth, supporting their six away wins.

Cons

No IPL Title: RCB’s three runner-up finishes (2009, 2011, 2016) and no trophies in 17 seasons frustrate fans, with X posts calling it a “jinx” that dampens morale.
Bowling Weakness: The lack of a premier spinner, with Suyash Sharma and Karn Sharma (economy 8.5+) struggling, hurts RCB, as Harbhajan Singh noted in 2025.
Home Struggles: A 1-3 record at Chinnaswamy in 2025, compared to six away wins, exposes inconsistencies, puzzling analysts and fans.
Auction Criticism: Spending ₹56 crore on batsmen like Jitesh Sharma left bowling thin, per X posts, risking squad imbalance.
Over-Reliance on Kohli: Despite a balanced 2025 squad, historical dependence on Kohli and AB de Villiers has drawn scrutiny for lack of depth.

The Road Ahead

With 16 points from 11 games, RCB is poised for playoffs, facing KKR, MI, and Punjab Kings next. Fans on X urge promoting Jitesh up the order to counter spin. Long-term, RCB’s youth pipeline (Suyash, Rasikh Dar) and analytics-driven approach, lauded by Flower, signal sustainability. A maiden title in 2025 would end the drought, fulfilling the “Play Bold” promise for fans in Bengaluru, Bhilwara, and worldwide.

Conclusion

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s journey—from 2008’s Test-heavy squad to 2025’s batting juggernaut—reflects resilience, star power, and unyielding fan passion. Despite no IPL trophy, Kohli’s 8,000 runs, Gayle’s six-hitting, and three finals keep RCB iconic. The 2025 season, with six away wins and Kohli’s Orange Cap chase, offers hope. As the Paltan chants “ನಮ್ಮRCB,” RCB’s pursuit of glory remains the IPL’s most compelling saga, uniting Bengaluru, Bhilwara, and cricket lovers globally.

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