Leg and off: Should RCB retain Cameron Green for IPL 2025?

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction coming up, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lie at a crossroads when it comes to player retention. One of the important decisions that the franchise needs to make is whether to hold onto Australian all-rounder Cameron Green.

Green was acquired by RCB via a trade with the Mumbai Indians for a massive amount of INR 17.5 crore ahead of the 2024 season. Given his hefty price tag, Green's performance in IPL 2024 has started a debate, leading to questions about his value to the team moving forward.

Cameron Green's IPL 2024 season was a mix of promise and disappointment. The all-rounder could only muster 255 runs at an average of 31 and accounted for 10 wickets with the ball. Although he showed moments of brilliance, his overall performance fell short of expectations, particularly given his hefty price tag. While RCB may be hesitant to use up a significant portion of their auction purse to retain him, his potential remains undeniable.

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Will RCB look at the all-rounder advantage?

Over the years, RCB have lacked the presence of a solid all-rounder, that too a pace-bowling all-rounder. Cameron Green brings dual ability as a batter and a bowler, which makes him a crucial asset for the franchise.

He is known for his ability to score quick runs in the middle order and also offers some useful medium-pace bowling. In IPL 2024, although his performance did not justify his price tag, Green displayed his potential, both as a finisher and a bowler. Retaining him for the upcoming season would signal RCB's commitment to enhancing their middle order and maintaining some flexibility.

However, the crux of the debate lies in whether RCB should invest in retaining him despite his mixed performance. While he did not emerge as a standout performer for them last season, which was expected of him, Green's versatility could still play a crucial role in the team's dynamics. The aim will be to build a more balanced squad for the upcoming seasons and not one season alone. That said, retaining Green could help provide stability, particularly in the middle order with the bat.

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Market dynamics and team balance

Retention decisions are also influenced by the changing market dynamics at the IPL auctions. While the mega auction presents a chance for teams to reshape their squads, retaining a player like Green will make RCB's strategic direction clear as to whether he was brought in for immediate results or part of a long-term plan for the franchise.

Looking at RCB's history, maintaining a strong overseas contingent has been a part of their strategy over the years. Therefore, having a player like Green could ensure they remain competitive. They do have the option to retain someone like a Glenn Maxwell too.

The decision to retain Green or another overseas player, such as Maxwell, depends on the team's long-term goals. If the franchise is looking to create a well-rounded team, keeping Green might be beneficial considering stability and depth. However, if they prioritize explosive performances that can change a match's outcome, Maxwell could be the preferred choice.

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To retain or not?

Ultimately, RCB should consider retaining Cameron Green for IPL 2025 as it will be an investment for at least three seasons. His all-round abilities bring a unique value that the franchise can leverage to strengthen their performance. While his numbers last season may suggest against him being retained given his price tag, the potential for growth and improvement has been evident.

In a league that is known to reward versatility, having Green's batting and bowling skills in the line-up could prove to the team's advantage. Retaining Green will allow them to maintain a strong overseas presence as he comes with experience of having delivered for Mumbai Indians in the past.

The franchise must look to creating a well-rounded team that can compete not just in the following season but for years to come, given their quest for a maiden IPL title is still on. For the Bengaluru franchise, the upcoming mega auction could be more than just about player retention. Retaining Cameron Green could make a valuable long-term asset moving forward.