Dinesh Karthik‘s retirement leaves a big hole at RCB. There would be intense competition for local wicket-keepers. Hence, it would not be a surprise if RCB goes ahead with a foreign option. Here, we take a look at the list of three foreign wicket-keepers who would be a realistic fit for RCB in IPL 2025.
1) Jonny Bairstow
Bairstow had a decent outing in IPL 2024 although more was expected out of him. Punjab Kings are likely to release the English cricketer.
If Faf du Plessis is also retiring, RCB could target Bairstow as the new opener. That would solve a lot of issues. If that does not happen, Bairstow could be trusted to do a middle-order, something that he is doing now for England in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
2) Glenn Phillips
Glenn Phillips is one of the foreign wicket-keepers who would be a realistic fit for RCB in IPL 2025. He would be the ideal replacement for Dinesh Karthik in RCB. Unfortunately, he did not get a single game in IPL 2024.
Phillips is a fine finisher and is also excellent with the gloves. He can also bowl off-spin, something that could be used if RCB also get one more keeper. In this regard, Phillips would add a lot of value to the side. Hence, he is on this list.
3) Josh Inglis
There would be a lot of competition for wicket-keepers in IPL 2025 Auctions. Hence, RCB must have a backup choice, as well. Therefore, someone like Josh Inglis could be used as a choice to don the gloves for the franchise.
Inglis prefers to bat in the top-order but he can also do a job as a finisher. He has been doing that for Australia. As a cheaper alternative, RCB could target Inglis. If he comes good, then it would be a fine investment for the franchise.
