Cricket fans around the world have always been passionate about their favorite players and teams, and for fans of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), that passion runs deep. Over the years, RCB has boasted some of the biggest names in the game, from dynamic batsmen to masterful bowlers. But who among them truly deserves to be ranked as the greatest RCB player of all time? In this blog, we’ll take a look at the top 5 players who have made a lasting impact on the team and the league as a whole.
Number 1. Virat Kohli
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When it comes to the best players in RCB’s IPL history, Virat Kohli undoubtedly reigns supreme. Since 2008, Kohli has been a consistent performer and leading run scorer for the team, amassing a staggering 6076 runs in 199 matches, with an average of 37.97 and a strike rate of 130.41. And if that wasn’t impressive enough, he also holds the record for scoring 973 runs in a single season (2016) with four centuries to his name.
But being a superstar comes with its fair share of challenges, and Kohli has faced his fair share of ups and downs. In the 2022 season, he struggled with poor form, getting out seven times in under 10 balls. And despite leading RCB to three finals (in 2009, 2011, and 2016), Kohli is yet to clinch an elusive IPL trophy for his beloved team. Can 2023 be the year where he finally lifts the famous trophy?
Number 2. Chris Gayle
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When it comes to destructive batsmen and match-winners, few can match the sheer firepower of Chris Gayle in RCB’s IPL history. With a jaw-dropping 4,812 runs in just 133 matches, he boasts an impressive average of 41.12 and a strike rate of 150.111. And if that wasn’t enough to make him a legend, Gayle also holds the record for scoring six centuries in the IPL – the highest by any player. Oh, and did we mention he scored the highest individual score of 175 not out against Pune Warriors India in 2013?
It’s no wonder Gayle was awarded the Player of the Series in 2011 and 2012 for his outstanding performances. But despite his undeniable talent, Gayle has also faced some challenges along the way. Injuries and inconsistency plagued him during the 2017 season, leading to his eventual dropping from RCB’s playing XI due to poor form. Still, there’s no denying that Gayle’s electrifying presence on the field has cemented his place in RCB’s rich history.
Number 3. AB de Villiers
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When it comes to versatile and explosive batsmen, few can match the sheer brilliance of AB de Villiers in RCB’s IPL history. With an impressive 4,948 runs in 176 matches, he boasts an enviable average of 40.40 and a jaw-dropping strike rate of 158.63. And if those stats weren’t enough to make him a legend, de Villiers also holds the record for scoring 133 not out off just 59 balls against Mumbai Indians in 2015 – his highest score in the IPL.
But de Villiers is not just a solo performer. In the same match, he shared an unbeaten partnership of 215 runs with none other than Virat Kohli – one of the highest partnerships in IPL history. And it’s not just his batting skills that make him a valuable asset to RCB. De Villiers is also a reliable wicket-keeper, adding another layer of versatility to his game.
No wonder he was awarded the Player of the Tournament in 2014 and 2016 for his brilliant performances. However, de Villiers has also faced his fair share of challenges. Fitness and form issues plagued him during the 2017 season, leading to him missing some matches due to a back injury. And after the 2021 IPL season, de Villiers announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, leaving fans devastated but grateful for the unforgettable memories he created on the field.
Number 4. Jacques Kallis
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Jacques Kallis, a name that strikes fear in the hearts of his opponents, was one of the greatest players in RCB’s IPL history. He was a remarkable all-rounder who contributed with both bat and ball for RCB. With 1,153 runs in 42 matches, he boasted an average of 32.94 and a strike rate of 106.77. Kallis also proved to be a formidable bowler, taking 39 wickets with an economy rate of 7.55 and a best bowling figure of 3/16.
Despite his incredible contributions to RCB, Kallis left the team after the 2010 season and joined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where he played until 2014. Even after his retirement from cricket, Kallis continued his association with KKR as a coach.
Number 5. Anil Kumble
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Anil Kumble is a cricket legend who left an indelible mark on RCB’s IPL history as a brilliant spinner, captain, and coach. During his time with the team from 2008 to 2010, he claimed 45 wickets in 42 matches, with an average of 23.51 and a remarkable strike rate of 19.44. One of his most memorable performances for RCB was his impressive spell of 5/5 against Rajasthan Royals in 2009, which earned him the title of ‘Best Breakthrough Performance’.
As captain, Kumble led RCB to the finals of IPL 2009 and 2010, showcasing his exceptional leadership skills. After retiring from IPL in 2010, he continued his association with RCB as a mentor till 2013, when he shared his wisdom and experience with young players.
In 2020, Kumble took on a new role as the head coach of Punjab Kings (formerly Kings XI Punjab), where he continued to inspire and guide the team with his vast knowledge and expertise in the sport. Overall, Kumble remains one of the most respected and celebrated figures in RCB’s IPL history.
