It will be shocking if RCB does retain Faf du Plessis before IPL 2025. His age is the only concern for the side. Therefore, the franchise could search for some alternatives. With an English management at the helm, RCB could target some England cricketers. Here, we take a look at the list of three English cricketers RCB can target to replace Faf du Plessis for IPL 2025.
Note: We have considered players who are likely to be released by their current outfits.
1) Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes has a short-term contract with ECB. Hence, he could focus on IPL. Yes, fitness is still a concern but on his day, he is a pure match-winner.
Ben Stokes has opened the batting before and is also regular in the middle order. He can also captain the side if needed. At the same time, if he starts bowling consistently again, this will also add to the value he provides.
2) Ben Duckett
Ben Duckett is one of the English cricketers RCB can target to replace Faf du Plessis for IPL 2025. The left-handed batter did really well in the recent Hundred edition.
He can open the batting and also operate in the middle order. He can also keep wickets if needed. The Englishman can succeed at Chinnaswamy and hence, he could be targeted by the franchise.
3) Jonny Bairstow
Jonny Bairstow could be available on the market for a cheap price. His recent IPL form has not been great and even for England, he is not a preferred choice at the moment.
While he can also play in the middle order, Jonny prefers to bat at the top. He could be a direct replacement for Faf. At Chinnaswamy, the conditions could help him rediscover his peak IPL form. Also, since RCB needs a wicket-keeper, they can target the veteran.
