Royal Challengers Bengaluru: A rollercoaster through the IPL years
The defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) journey in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been anything but straightforward. From being one of the most expensive franchises at inception to enduring years of underachievement despite a star-studded lineup, the team has consistently remained in the spotlight. The long-awaited breakthrough eventually arrived in 2025, marking a turning point in the franchise’s history.
For years, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were among the most popular teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL), yet their trophy cabinet remained empty. Bought for Rs 464 crore (about $111. 6 million) in 2008, they were the second-most expensive franchise at the time.
Ownership later shifted from Vijay Mallya’s United Breweries to Diageo India in 2015, marking a key transition off the field. Their early approach did not quite fit the format. In 2008, RCB built a squad around Test stalwarts, hoping experience would translate into T20 success, but they managed only four wins.
The next few seasons brought a turnaround, with two runners-up finishes that established them as contenders. Over the years, RCB became known for big auction buys. Players like Yuvraj Singh, Dinesh Karthik and Chris Morris were signed for hefty sums but rarely retained beyond a season if they did not deliver.
In contrast, the franchise consistently backed Virat Kohli, who became its long-standing face. Under Faf du Plessis, they returned to the playoffs, finishing fourth in successive seasons. The long wait finally ended in 2025.
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