Sun Nov 24 23:07:16 UTC 2024: ## RCB’s Big Spending Spree at IPL Auction Sparks Criticism

**Bengaluru, India** – The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) made headlines at the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction, splashing out a significant amount of money on several players, but drawing criticism for their strategy in the process.

The franchise shelled out a massive ₹12.5 crore for Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, bringing him back to the team. Further bolstering their squad, RCB also acquired England’s Phil Salt (₹11.5 crore) and Liam Livingstone (₹8.75 crore), and Indian wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma (₹11 crore). Other notable acquisitions include Rasikh Dar (₹6 crore) and Suyash Sharma (₹2.6 crore).

However, RCB’s spending spree has been met with disapproval from former players. Speaking on JioCinema, former RCB player Robin Uthappa expressed his disappointment with the team’s approach, stating that the franchise had not adequately addressed their core needs. He questioned their strategy, highlighting their failure to bid for top players like Mitchell Starc, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Shreyas Iyer, and expressed concern about letting down the loyal RCB fanbase. Uthappa emphasized that despite having a substantial budget, the team missed opportunities to acquire crucial players and build a stronger, more balanced team. He suggested the fans felt “let down” by the team’s choices.

Despite the criticism, RCB retained key players like Virat Kohli (₹21 crore), Rajat Patidar (₹11 crore), and Yash Dayal (₹5 crore). Whether their bold, albeit controversial, auction strategy will ultimately pay off remains to be seen.

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