Mon Nov 25 16:20:00 UTC 2024: ## RCB Makes Stunning Comeback at IPL Mega Auction, Acquires Four Key Players

**Bengaluru, [Date]:** The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) initially appeared sluggish at the IPL mega auction but staged a remarkable comeback, securing four high-profile players and surprising many with their aggressive bidding.

The team’s biggest acquisition was Liam Livingstone, a marquee player, whom they secured for ₹8.75 crore after a bidding war with Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. Livingstone’s base price was ₹2 crore.

RCB also engaged in fierce bidding for several other players. They successfully acquired Josh Hazlewood for a whopping ₹12.50 crore, outbidding Lucknow Super Giants, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Mumbai Indians. England opener Phil Salt was another key addition, purchased for ₹11.50 crore after a bidding battle with KKR and MI. Salt has been in excellent form for England recently and played a crucial role in KKR’s championship win last season.

The team also secured promising Indian wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma for ₹11 crore (after an initial bid of ₹7 crore) and fast bowler from Jammu and Kashmir, Rasiq Dar, for ₹6 crore (initial bid of ₹2 crore) despite a Right to Match (RTM) card from Delhi Capitals.

RCB retained three players before the auction: Virat Kohli (₹21 crore), Rajat Patidar (₹11 crore), and Yash Dayal (₹5 crore). The notable omission from the RTM or bidding process was Mohammed Siraj and Glenn Maxwell, sparking considerable debate on social media. The team’s strategy to not retain or bid for these two long-standing players is considered a surprise move by many.

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