Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday (March 13) confirmed the appointment of Faf du Plessis as their new captain ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Du Plessis will replace Virat Kohli, who had stepped down from captaincy following the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year. While there were speculations Kohli could return to captaincy or Glenn Maxwell can take charge, RCB's announcement put to rest all such rumours.

Du Plessis was signed by RCB for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month and ever since then, he had become one of the frontrunners to become the new RCB skipper. However, the likes of Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik, who have led IPL teams in the past, were also in contention to replace Kohli as the new captain.

RCB's Director of Cricket Mike Hesson explained why the franchise decided to go with Du Plessis as captain over the likes of Maxwell and Karthik. When asked if the franchise had bid for Du Plessis at the mega auction keeping the captaincy decision in mind, Hesson admitted the franchise saw the former South Africa skipper as part of their leadership group.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/faf-du-plessis-replaces-virat-kohli-as-rcb-captain-ahead-of-ipl-2022-461649">Faf du Plessis replaces Virat Kohli as RCB captain ahead of IPL 2022</a>

"It was a little bit of both. We obviously had Maxwell and Virat to have huge captaincy experience that we retained. We felt within our leadership group we wanted to expand on that and also Harshal Patel as well. Who we wanted to buy back. So it was more about growing our leadership group and carrying on from that," said Hesson.

"Obviously, Faf was right up the top of that list in terms of whom we were wanting to get. It was little bit of both. I know how well respected he is. I know tactically sound he is. We have the likes of Virat, Maxi (Maxwell), DK who is new to the group," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/couldnt-be-happier-to-pass-on-baton-says-virat-kohli-on-faf-du-plessis-appointment-as-rcb-captain-461728">Couldn't be happier to pass on baton, says Virat Kohli on Faf du Plessis' appointment as RCB captain</a>

With many of the opinion that having an overseas captain might act as a limitation going forward as only four overseas players are allowed in the playing XI, Hesson said he had no doubts that Du Plessis will play all games for the franchise. Hesson also called Du Plessis the most suitable candidate for the captaincy role.

"When you look to decide who's the most suitable candidate for the role, you don't necessarily decide whether they're an Indian player or an overseas player. Sure the seven Indians and there's four overseas -- we know the maths," said Hesson.

"The reality is that Faf is good enough to play every single game anyway. So that's not a question. Therefore you just look at who's the guy you gonna work with the leaders in the group and get the best out of the younger guys, build relationships and help develop that RCB culture that we want. We just want the best candidate for the job. And there's no doubt in our mind that Faf is the guy for that," he added.

RCB, who are yet to win their maiden IPL title, will hope for a change in fortunes this season after appointing Du Plessis as the new leader of the side.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday (March 13) confirmed the appointment of Faf du Plessis as their new captain ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday (March 13) confirmed the appointment of Faf du Plessis as their new captain ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. Du Plessis will replace Virat Kohli, who had stepped down from captaincy following the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year. While there were speculations Kohli could return to captaincy or Glenn Maxwell can take charge, RCB's announcement put to rest all such rumours. Du Plessis was signed by RCB for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month and ever since then, he had become one of the frontrunners to become the new RCB skipper. However, the likes of Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik, who have led IPL teams in the past, were also in contention to replace Kohli as the new captain. RCB's Director of Cricket Mike Hesson explained why the franchise decided to go with Du Plessis as captain over the likes of Maxwell and Karthik. When asked if the franchise had bid for Du Plessis at the mega auction keeping the captaincy decision in mind, Hesson admitted the franchise saw the former South Africa skipper as part of their leadership group. Also Read: Faf du Plessis replaces Virat Kohli as RCB captain ahead of IPL 2022 "It was a little bit of both. We obviously had Maxwell and Virat to have huge captaincy experience that we retained. We felt within our leadership group we wanted to expand on that and also Harshal Patel as well. Who we wanted to buy back. So it was more about growing our leadership group and carrying on from that," said Hesson. "Obviously, Faf was right up the top of that list in terms of whom we were wanting to get. It was little bit of both. I know how well respected he is. I know tactically sound he is. We have the likes of Virat, Maxi (Maxwell), DK who is new to the group," he added. Also Read: Couldn't be happier to pass on baton, says Virat Kohli on Faf du Plessis' appointment as RCB captain With many of the opinion that having an overseas captain might act as a limitation going forward as only four overseas players are allowed in the playing XI, Hesson said he had no doubts that Du Plessis will play all games for the franchise. Hesson also called Du Plessis the most suitable candidate for the captaincy role. "When you look to decide who's the most suitable candidate for the role, you don't necessarily decide whether they're an Indian player or an overseas player. Sure the seven Indians and there's four overseas -- we know the maths," said Hesson. "The reality is that Faf is good enough to play every single game anyway. So that's not a question. Therefore you just look at who's the guy you gonna work with the leaders in the group and get the best out of the younger guys, build relationships and help develop that RCB culture that we want. We just want the best candidate for the job. And there's no doubt in our mind that Faf is the guy for that," he added. RCB, who are yet to win their maiden IPL title, will hope for a change in fortunes this season after appointing Du Plessis as the new leader of the side.

Mike Hesson explains why RCB picked Faf du Plessis over Maxwell and Karthik to lead the side in IPL 2022

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday named Faf du Plessis as their new captain ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. RCB had roped in the former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month. Du Plessis will replace Virat Kohli as the new skipper of the Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Kohli had stepped down as the captain of the side after the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year. However, there were speculations that RCB are yet to accept his resignation as captain of the side and might convince him to take the leadership role again for the franchise. However, Du Plessis' appointment has put to rest the speculations surrounding Kohli's return as captain. 
&nbsp;

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The Leader of the Pride is here! 
 
Captain of RCB, <a href="https://twitter.com/faf1307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@faf1307</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBCaptain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBCaptain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBUnbox?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBUnbox</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForOur12thMan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForOur12thMan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UnboxTheBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UnboxTheBold</a> <a href="https://t.co/UfmrHBrZcb">pic.twitter.com/UfmrHBrZcb</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1502603973848494087?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Du Plessis pipped the likes of Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik in the race to become the new captain of the franchise after Kohli's decision to leave the post. Du Plessis will be leading a side for the first time in the Indian Premier League despite having been part of the league for several years now.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-group-b-schedule-a-look-at-complete-fixtures-of-csk-srh-rcb-pbks-and-gujarat-titans-459631">&nbsp;IPL 2022 Group B schedule: A look at complete fixtures of CSK, SRH, RCB, PBKS and Gujarat Titans</a>

The former South Africa skipper, however, has significant captaincy experience in international cricket. He led the country in 115 international matches bagging 81 wins. He had stepped down as South Africa's captain in February 2020 before retiring from international cricket.

Du Plessis has won the IPL thrice with CSK and his experience will come in handy for RCB, who are still hunting for their maiden IPL title. RCB will open their IPL 2022 campaign against Punjab Kings on March 27. They are part of Group B along with CSK, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans. 
&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday named Faf du Plessis as their new captain ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. RCB had roped in the former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday named Faf du Plessis as their new captain ahead of the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. RCB had roped in the former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) at the IPL 2022 mega auction last month. Du Plessis will replace Virat Kohli as the new skipper of the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Kohli had stepped down as the captain of the side after the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year. However, there were speculations that RCB are yet to accept his resignation as captain of the side and might convince him to take the leadership role again for the franchise. However, Du Plessis' appointment has put to rest the speculations surrounding Kohli's return as captain. The Leader of the Pride is here! Captain of RCB, @faf1307! #PlayBold #RCBCaptain #RCBUnbox #ForOur12thMan #UnboxTheBold pic.twitter.com/UfmrHBrZcb — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) March 12, 2022 × Du Plessis pipped the likes of Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik in the race to become the new captain of the franchise after Kohli's decision to leave the post. Du Plessis will be leading a side for the first time in the Indian Premier League despite having been part of the league for several years now. Also Read: IPL 2022 Group B schedule: A look at complete fixtures of CSK, SRH, RCB, PBKS and Gujarat Titans The former South Africa skipper, however, has significant captaincy experience in international cricket. He led the country in 115 international matches bagging 81 wins. He had stepped down as South Africa's captain in February 2020 before retiring from international cricket. Du Plessis has won the IPL thrice with CSK and his experience will come in handy for RCB, who are still hunting for their maiden IPL title. RCB will open their IPL 2022 campaign against Punjab Kings on March 27. They are part of Group B along with CSK, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans.

Faf du Plessis replaces Virat Kohli as RCB captain ahead of IPL 2022

Ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, there is only one franchise who is&nbsp;yet to announce its captain. The three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have not yet announced their skipper for the forthcoming season, which is set to get underway on March 26 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.&nbsp;

For the unversed, the Bengaluru-based franchise are set to make some major announcements -- regarding their new captain and jersey. Prior to it, the popular team dropped a special video, on Twitter,&nbsp;featuring ex-skipper Virat Kohli.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-on-cusp-of-surpassing-mark-waugh-gary-sobers-in-elite-list-as-india-take-on-sri-lanka-in-2nd-test-460878">Virat Kohli on cusp of surpassing Mark Waugh, Gary Sobers in elite list as India take on Sri Lanka in 2nd Test</a>

"Hi guys, a few updates for you guys. As you know, we are going to start our season pretty soon. [It’s] something I am really excited for. As I said, renewed energy. Really looking forward to this season. First and foremost, the most important news is that...." Kohli said in the video.

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“Renewed Energy. Excited for the IPL season. There’s an important news...” - Virat Kohli has a message for all of you RCB fans! 🗣 
 
Location: Museum Cross Road, Church Street, Bengaluru 
Date: 12.03.2022 
Time: 12pm to 8pm<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://t.co/o26eA2bOq3">pic.twitter.com/o26eA2bOq3</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1501842959586979841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The RCB camp is set to share some major updates, in the run-up to the ten-team tournament, at an event that they have been promoting as 'RCB unbox',&nbsp;in Bengaluru. Despite being in the garden city, Kohli won't be able to attend the event as he will be involved in the second and final Test between India and Sri Lanka, which gets underway on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Glenn Maxwell -- whom the franchise retained for INR 110 million (INR 11 crore) -- Faf du Plessis and Dinesh Karthik are being touted as the frontrunners to take over as the RCB captain. While many former cricketers still want Kohli to reclaim the top post, despite his resignation following the last season, the 33-year-old won't return as&nbsp;captain.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-to-hardik-pandya-top-5-cricketing-superstars-with-most-instagram-followers-460635">From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers</a>

"I’m not someone who holds onto things more than I should. Even if I know I can do a lot more, if I’m not going to enjoy the process, I’m not going to do it," Kohli has recently said on "The RCB Podcast".

"Because it’s very difficult for people to understand your decisions unless they are in your situation. From the outside, people have their own expectations ‘Oh! How did that happen? We are so shocked'. There's nothing to be shocked about. I explain to people, I wanted some space and I wanted to manage my workload and the story ends there," he added.

RCB will open their campaign in IPL 2022 on March 27 against Mayank Agarwal-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai.

Ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, there is only one franchise who is yet to announce its captain. The three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have not yet announced their skipper for the forthcoming season, which is set to get underway on March 26 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, there is only one franchise who is yet to announce its captain. The three-time runners-up Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have not yet announced their skipper for the forthcoming season, which is set to get underway on March 26 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. For the unversed, the Bengaluru-based franchise are set to make some major announcements -- regarding their new captain and jersey. Prior to it, the popular team dropped a special video, on Twitter, featuring ex-skipper Virat Kohli. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli on cusp of surpassing Mark Waugh, Gary Sobers in elite list as India take on Sri Lanka in 2nd Test "Hi guys, a few updates for you guys. As you know, we are going to start our season pretty soon. [It’s] something I am really excited for. As I said, renewed energy. Really looking forward to this season. First and foremost, the most important news is that...." Kohli said in the video. “Renewed Energy. Excited for the IPL season. There’s an important news...” - Virat Kohli has a message for all of you RCB fans! 🗣 Location: Museum Cross Road, Church Street, Bengaluru Date: 12.03.2022 Time: 12pm to 8pm#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers pic.twitter.com/o26eA2bOq3 — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) March 10, 2022 × The RCB camp is set to share some major updates, in the run-up to the ten-team tournament, at an event that they have been promoting as 'RCB unbox', in Bengaluru. Despite being in the garden city, Kohli won't be able to attend the event as he will be involved in the second and final Test between India and Sri Lanka, which gets underway on March 12 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Glenn Maxwell -- whom the franchise retained for INR 110 million (INR 11 crore) -- Faf du Plessis and Dinesh Karthik are being touted as the frontrunners to take over as the RCB captain. While many former cricketers still want Kohli to reclaim the top post, despite his resignation following the last season, the 33-year-old won't return as captain. ALSO READ | From Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni to Hardik Pandya: Top 5 cricketing superstars with most Instagram followers "I’m not someone who holds onto things more than I should. Even if I know I can do a lot more, if I’m not going to enjoy the process, I’m not going to do it," Kohli has recently said on "The RCB Podcast". "Because it’s very difficult for people to understand your decisions unless they are in your situation. From the outside, people have their own expectations ‘Oh! How did that happen? We are so shocked'. There's nothing to be shocked about. I explain to people, I wanted some space and I wanted to manage my workload and the story ends there," he added. RCB will open their campaign in IPL 2022 on March 27 against Mayank Agarwal-led Punjab Kings (PBKS) at DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai.

WATCH: RCB drop special video featuring ex-captain Virat Kohli before major announcements on March 12

Virat Kohli had dropped a bomb by announcing that he will step aside as the Royal Challengers Bangalore&nbsp;(RCB) captain when the second and final leg of IPL 2021 kicked off last year, in the UAE. After RCB lost the Eliminator to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Kohli's captaincy tenure for the three-time runners-up finally came to an end.

Kohli captained the side from 2011&nbsp;-2021 (becoming the full-time skipper since 2013) but couldn't lead them to the coveted title. Under his leadership, the Bengaluru-based franchise&nbsp;won 64 games in 140 matches, losing as many as 69 fixtures. Their best season under Kohli came in 2016 when they lost the season-finale to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).&nbsp;

Ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, RCB remain the only team who have not announced their captain yet. After the mega auction, they added some new faces to the squad and have some captaincy contenders in the form of Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis, Dinesh Karthik whereas some feel Kohli might also return to the top job if he wishes to.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-made-me-look-like-a-fool-when-virat-kohli-recalled-his-face-off-with-shane-warne-during-ipl-2009-459943">'He made me look like a fool': When Virat Kohli recalled his face-off with Shane Warne during IPL 2009</a>

Nonetheless, former RCB skipper -- and Kohli's predecessor -- Daniel Vettori doesn't feel the star player will take up the captaincy post once again. "No [Virat Kohli will not be the RCB captain again]. I think it is as simple as that. I don't think that ever works, let alone in franchise cricket or international cricket. Once the captain is moved on, the right thing is for him to move on," Vettori told&nbsp;ESPNCricinfo.

Vettori further revealed his choice and said, "I think they will look at Kohli, Maxwell and Du Plessis as the leadership group and even Dinesh Karthik. I think Faf will step in for Maxwell. But if they win the first three games, maybe they will continue on with him. I think Maxwell is a shorter long-term. Three years is a long-term time in the IPL. They will look at Maxwell as the three-year cycle and hopefully he continues to play as he did in the last IPL. They will factor that in that he will be the leader for three years."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/royal-challengers-bangalore-complete-squad-for-ipl-2022-faf-du-plessis-to-captain-pace-heavy-line-up-453152">Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up?</a>

Complete squad of RCB for IPL 2022:

Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Harshal Patel, Faf du Plessis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood, Shahbaz Ahamad, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Behrendorff, Suyash Prabhudessai, Chama Milind, Aneeshwar Gautam, Karn Sharma,&nbsp;David Willey.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli had dropped a bomb by announcing that he will step aside as the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain when the second and final leg of IPL 2021 kicked off last year, in the UAE.

Virat Kohli had dropped a bomb by announcing that he will step aside as the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain when the second and final leg of IPL 2021 kicked off last year, in the UAE. After RCB lost the Eliminator to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Kohli's captaincy tenure for the three-time runners-up finally came to an end. Kohli captained the side from 2011 -2021 (becoming the full-time skipper since 2013) but couldn't lead them to the coveted title. Under his leadership, the Bengaluru-based franchise won 64 games in 140 matches, losing as many as 69 fixtures. Their best season under Kohli came in 2016 when they lost the season-finale to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Ahead of the IPL 2022 edition, RCB remain the only team who have not announced their captain yet. After the mega auction, they added some new faces to the squad and have some captaincy contenders in the form of Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis, Dinesh Karthik whereas some feel Kohli might also return to the top job if he wishes to. ALSO READ | 'He made me look like a fool': When Virat Kohli recalled his face-off with Shane Warne during IPL 2009 Nonetheless, former RCB skipper -- and Kohli's predecessor -- Daniel Vettori doesn't feel the star player will take up the captaincy post once again. "No [Virat Kohli will not be the RCB captain again]. I think it is as simple as that. I don't think that ever works, let alone in franchise cricket or international cricket. Once the captain is moved on, the right thing is for him to move on," Vettori told ESPNCricinfo. Vettori further revealed his choice and said, "I think they will look at Kohli, Maxwell and Du Plessis as the leadership group and even Dinesh Karthik. I think Faf will step in for Maxwell. But if they win the first three games, maybe they will continue on with him. I think Maxwell is a shorter long-term. Three years is a long-term time in the IPL. They will look at Maxwell as the three-year cycle and hopefully he continues to play as he did in the last IPL. They will factor that in that he will be the leader for three years." ALSO READ | Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up? Complete squad of RCB for IPL 2022: Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Harshal Patel, Faf du Plessis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood, Shahbaz Ahamad, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Behrendorff, Suyash Prabhudessai, Chama Milind, Aneeshwar Gautam, Karn Sharma, David Willey.

Daniel Vettori gives his verdict on whether Virat Kohli will return to RCB captaincy in IPL 2022

The forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition will begin on March 26, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have confirmed on Thursday evening (February 24). The final decision regarding the commencement of the 15th edition was expected after the IPL general council meeting, which was held on Thursday.

Post the IPL GC meeting, the final date is now out as the upcoming season will begin in just over a month.&nbsp; "The IPL will kick off on March 26, the full schedule will come soon. We will also have crowds but as per the policy of the Maharashtra government. Whether it will be 25 or 50 per cent of the stadium capacity will be decided by the government instruction," the IPL chairman told Cricbuzz.

The ten-team showpiece event will be held in India, with Maharashtra hosting the league stage. Mumbai and Pune will host the 70-game league stage, with 55 games to be held in Mumbai's three venues and the remaining 15 in Pune (20 at the Wankhede Stadium, 15 at Brabourne Stadium, 20 more at DY Patil Stadium and&nbsp;15 at Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) ground in Gahunje, Pune).

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mumbai-and-pune-to-host-league-stage-final-decision-on-starting-date-venues-soon-report-455709">IPL 2022: Mumbai and Pune to host league stage; final decision on starting date, venues soon - Report</a>

The venues for the playoffs are not yet decided. However, Ahmedabad remains a frontrunner to host the knockouts.&nbsp;When asked about it, Patel said, "We will decide about the play-offs later." The full schedule of the IPL 2022 edition will be out soon.

This year's season will see two new teams making their respective debuts, i.e. the KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Hardik Pandya's Gujarat Titans.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/theres-nothing-to-be-shocked-about-virat-kohli-breaks-silence-on-decision-of-quitting-as-rcb-captain-455994">There’s nothing to be shocked about: Virat Kohli breaks silence on decision of quitting as RCB captain</a>

The IPL 15 final will be held on May 29. The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are the defending champions, having won the tournament for the fourth time during last year's edition.

The forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition will begin on March 26, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have confirmed on Thursday evening (February 24).

The forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 edition will begin on March 26, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have confirmed on Thursday evening (February 24). The final decision regarding the commencement of the 15th edition was expected after the IPL general council meeting, which was held on Thursday. Post the IPL GC meeting, the final date is now out as the upcoming season will begin in just over a month. "The IPL will kick off on March 26, the full schedule will come soon. We will also have crowds but as per the policy of the Maharashtra government. Whether it will be 25 or 50 per cent of the stadium capacity will be decided by the government instruction," the IPL chairman told Cricbuzz. The ten-team showpiece event will be held in India, with Maharashtra hosting the league stage. Mumbai and Pune will host the 70-game league stage, with 55 games to be held in Mumbai's three venues and the remaining 15 in Pune (20 at the Wankhede Stadium, 15 at Brabourne Stadium, 20 more at DY Patil Stadium and 15 at Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) ground in Gahunje, Pune). ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mumbai and Pune to host league stage; final decision on starting date, venues soon - Report The venues for the playoffs are not yet decided. However, Ahmedabad remains a frontrunner to host the knockouts. When asked about it, Patel said, "We will decide about the play-offs later." The full schedule of the IPL 2022 edition will be out soon. This year's season will see two new teams making their respective debuts, i.e. the KL Rahul-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Hardik Pandya's Gujarat Titans. ALSO READ | There’s nothing to be shocked about: Virat Kohli breaks silence on decision of quitting as RCB captain The IPL 15 final will be held on May 29. The MS Dhoni-led Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are the defending champions, having won the tournament for the fourth time during last year's edition.

IPL 2022 to kick off from March 26, league stage to be played in Mumbai, Pune

Virat Kohli dropped a bomb on the day the second and final leg of the IPL 2021 edition commenced in the UAE, i.e. on September 19. Back then, Kohli revealed that he won't be captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise after the end of the 14th edition.

In a video shared by the RCB franchise on Twitter, Kohli told, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me. I spoke to the management this evening. This was something that was on my mind... I needed the space to refresh, regroup and be absolutely clear in how to move forward."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-shikhar-dhawan-mayank-agarwal-likely-to-be-named-punjab-kings-captain-ahead-of-ipl-2022-report-455975">Not Shikhar Dhawan! Mayank Agarwal likely to be named Punjab Kings' captain ahead of IPL 2022 - Report</a>

Recently, on "The RCB Podcast", Kohli explained his decision behind quitting as Bengaluru's captain and said, "I’m not someone who holds onto things more than I should. Even if I know I can do a lot more, if I’m not going to enjoy the process, I’m not going to do it. Because it’s very difficult for people to understand your decisions unless they are in your situation. From the outside, people have their own expectations ‘Oh! How did that happen? We are so shocked'."

He further pointed out, "There was actually nothing at all. I keep my life very simple and basic, when I wanted to make a decision, I made a decision and I announced it. I didn’t want to think about it and contemplate it for another year. That would’ve done nothing to me, nothing to the environment I’m part of. Quality of life is something very important to me. And the quality of cricket is something very important to me.

"Over a period of time, you want to do what you’re doing day-in-and-day-out and you want to do as much as you can, but at the end of the day, you have to realize that quality is far more important than quantity," added the 33-year-old Kohli.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-has-got-ice-running-through-his-veins-virat-kohli-is-a-superhuman-shane-watson-455678">MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, Virat Kohli is a superhuman: Shane Watson</a>

Under Kohli, the three-time runners-up RCB won 64 games in 140 matches, losing as many as 69 fixtures. The 33-year-old captained the Bengaluru-based franchise&nbsp;from 2011-2021 (becoming the full-time skipper since 2013) but couldn't lead them to the coveted title. In 2016, Kohli-led RCB played the season-finale where the&nbsp;David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat them by 8 runs.

At present, Kohli is enjoying a bio-bubble break and won't take part in the India-Sri Lanka T20Is, starting on February 24. He will return for the two Tests between both sides, which wil get underway on March 04.

Virat Kohli dropped a bomb on the day the second and final leg of the IPL 2021 edition commenced in the UAE, i.e. on September 19. Back then, Kohli revealed that he won't be captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise after the end of the 14th edition.

Virat Kohli dropped a bomb on the day the second and final leg of the IPL 2021 edition commenced in the UAE, i.e. on September 19. Back then, Kohli revealed that he won't be captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise after the end of the 14th edition. In a video shared by the RCB franchise on Twitter, Kohli told, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me. I spoke to the management this evening. This was something that was on my mind... I needed the space to refresh, regroup and be absolutely clear in how to move forward." ALSO READ | Not Shikhar Dhawan! Mayank Agarwal likely to be named Punjab Kings' captain ahead of IPL 2022 - Report Recently, on "The RCB Podcast", Kohli explained his decision behind quitting as Bengaluru's captain and said, "I’m not someone who holds onto things more than I should. Even if I know I can do a lot more, if I’m not going to enjoy the process, I’m not going to do it. Because it’s very difficult for people to understand your decisions unless they are in your situation. From the outside, people have their own expectations ‘Oh! How did that happen? We are so shocked'." He further pointed out, "There was actually nothing at all. I keep my life very simple and basic, when I wanted to make a decision, I made a decision and I announced it. I didn’t want to think about it and contemplate it for another year. That would’ve done nothing to me, nothing to the environment I’m part of. Quality of life is something very important to me. And the quality of cricket is something very important to me. "Over a period of time, you want to do what you’re doing day-in-and-day-out and you want to do as much as you can, but at the end of the day, you have to realize that quality is far more important than quantity," added the 33-year-old Kohli. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni has got ice running through his veins, Virat Kohli is a superhuman: Shane Watson Under Kohli, the three-time runners-up RCB won 64 games in 140 matches, losing as many as 69 fixtures. The 33-year-old captained the Bengaluru-based franchise from 2011-2021 (becoming the full-time skipper since 2013) but couldn't lead them to the coveted title. In 2016, Kohli-led RCB played the season-finale where the David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat them by 8 runs. At present, Kohli is enjoying a bio-bubble break and won't take part in the India-Sri Lanka T20Is, starting on February 24. He will return for the two Tests between both sides, which wil get underway on March 04.

There’s nothing to be shocked about: Virat Kohli breaks silence on decision of quitting as RCB captain

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a huge hit. After the dust has settled on the mega auction, the wait is for the IPL 2022 edition, which is set to be held in India in the last week of March. As per the&nbsp;latest report, Mumbai is set to host the majority of games in the league stage, along with Pune, whereas the tournament is set to conclude on May 29.&nbsp;

While a final decision is still pending, a report in Cricbuzz has pointed out that Mumbai will host 55 games in the 70-match league stage whereas Pune is set to get 15 games from the initial stage of the showpiece event.&nbsp;Wankhede Stadium, Brabourne Stadium and DY Patil Stadium -- in Mumbai -- and the MCA Stadium in Pune will host the league stage although&nbsp;nothing is decided on the playoffs' venues. However, the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, in Ahmedabad, remains a frontrunner&nbsp;for the knockouts.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-event-to-be-held-in-india-franchises-eager-for-bcci-to-finalise-venues-report-449770">IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report</a>

It is being reported that two dates are being considered for the commencement of the 15th edition in India. While the official broadcasters want the upcoming season to kick off on March 26 (i.e. a Saturday), another option suggests that IPL 2022 will start on March 27 (Sunday). A final decision on the full schedule, venues and dates is expected to be out at the forthcoming IPL Governing Council (GC) meeting.&nbsp;

For the unversed, the meeting is set to take place on Thursday (February 24).

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a huge hit. After the dust has settled on the mega auction, the wait is for the IPL 2022 edition, which is set to be held in India in the last week of March.

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a huge hit. After the dust has settled on the mega auction, the wait is for the IPL 2022 edition, which is set to be held in India in the last week of March. As per the latest report, Mumbai is set to host the majority of games in the league stage, along with Pune, whereas the tournament is set to conclude on May 29. While a final decision is still pending, a report in Cricbuzz has pointed out that Mumbai will host 55 games in the 70-match league stage whereas Pune is set to get 15 games from the initial stage of the showpiece event. Wankhede Stadium, Brabourne Stadium and DY Patil Stadium -- in Mumbai -- and the MCA Stadium in Pune will host the league stage although nothing is decided on the playoffs' venues. However, the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, in Ahmedabad, remains a frontrunner for the knockouts. ALSO READ | IPL 2022: Mega event to be held in India; franchises eager for BCCI to finalise venues - Report It is being reported that two dates are being considered for the commencement of the 15th edition in India. While the official broadcasters want the upcoming season to kick off on March 26 (i.e. a Saturday), another option suggests that IPL 2022 will start on March 27 (Sunday). A final decision on the full schedule, venues and dates is expected to be out at the forthcoming IPL Governing Council (GC) meeting. For the unversed, the meeting is set to take place on Thursday (February 24).

IPL 2022: Mumbai and Pune to host league stage; final decision on starting date, venues soon - Report

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Sunday (February 20) shared a video of their pre-auction planning which was done ahead of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. RCB roped in a number of stars players at the IPL mega auction but their key signings were former South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis and Sri Lanka all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga.

RCB made former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Du Plessis their first signing at the IPL 2022 mega auction after spending a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) to secure his services for the upcoming season. Du Plessis had a phenomenal season for CSK last year as he ended up as the second-highest run-getter in IPL 2021 with 633 runs from 16 matches.

In the video shared by RCB of their pre-auction planning, the franchise's Director of Cricket Mike Hesson can be seen stressing why signing Du Plessis will be a great move for them. Hesson also goes on to predict that CSK will try to get the South African batter back at the auction and that not many will expect RCB to make a move for him.

“With the options we have in our current squad and the uncertainty surrounding those, and the options we have at the auction, where we think we can gain a real advantage is with Faf du Plessis who is highly experienced. He has captained South Africa for long, won the IPL many times and is a very consistent performer in terms of how he operates. He's a strong character and highly respected. These are a lot of attributes you want in a leader,” Hesson says in the video.

“It's pretty clear that CSK will likely try and get him back, as they do with all their players. He's also in the marquee group; for us to have some structure going forward, we need to allocate some budget to get that. We would want to go through teams who might look at him. CSK will obviously make a bid, no one will expect us in terms of who we are likely to go for,” he explains further.

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As it turned out, CSK did try to get back Du Plessis at the IPL 2022 mega auction but pulled out of the race after the bidding went out of their budget. RCB ended up getting the experienced batter for a sum of Rs 7 crore. Apart from Du Plessis, Hesson also states in the video that RCB should prioritise signing Sri Lankan all-rounder Hasaranga on day 1 of the mega auction.

“We see his (Faf's) role along with Hasaranga as two most important overseas roles to get on the first day. There are a number of different permutations and combinations to get to this point and I'm sure there will continue to be some. But the primary role is to start and fine-tune how we have to go about achieving that. The priority on Day 1 is to get Hasaranga and Faf,” Hesson said in the video.

&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Sunday (February 20) shared a video of their pre-auction planning which was done ahead of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Sunday (February 20) shared a video of their pre-auction planning which was done ahead of the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. RCB roped in a number of stars players at the IPL mega auction but their key signings were former South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis and Sri Lanka all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga. RCB made former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Du Plessis their first signing at the IPL 2022 mega auction after spending a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million) to secure his services for the upcoming season. Du Plessis had a phenomenal season for CSK last year as he ended up as the second-highest run-getter in IPL 2021 with 633 runs from 16 matches. In the video shared by RCB of their pre-auction planning, the franchise's Director of Cricket Mike Hesson can be seen stressing why signing Du Plessis will be a great move for them. Hesson also goes on to predict that CSK will try to get the South African batter back at the auction and that not many will expect RCB to make a move for him. “With the options we have in our current squad and the uncertainty surrounding those, and the options we have at the auction, where we think we can gain a real advantage is with Faf du Plessis who is highly experienced. He has captained South Africa for long, won the IPL many times and is a very consistent performer in terms of how he operates. He's a strong character and highly respected. These are a lot of attributes you want in a leader,” Hesson says in the video. “It's pretty clear that CSK will likely try and get him back, as they do with all their players. He's also in the marquee group; for us to have some structure going forward, we need to allocate some budget to get that. We would want to go through teams who might look at him. CSK will obviously make a bid, no one will expect us in terms of who we are likely to go for,” he explains further. Also Read: Virender Sehwag reacts as Saha shares screenshots of disturbing messages from a 'journalist' As it turned out, CSK did try to get back Du Plessis at the IPL 2022 mega auction but pulled out of the race after the bidding went out of their budget. RCB ended up getting the experienced batter for a sum of Rs 7 crore. Apart from Du Plessis, Hesson also states in the video that RCB should prioritise signing Sri Lankan all-rounder Hasaranga on day 1 of the mega auction. “We see his (Faf's) role along with Hasaranga as two most important overseas roles to get on the first day. There are a number of different permutations and combinations to get to this point and I'm sure there will continue to be some. But the primary role is to start and fine-tune how we have to go about achieving that. The priority on Day 1 is to get Hasaranga and Faf,” Hesson said in the video.

'CSK will try to get him back, no one will expect us': How RCB planned Faf du Plessis' signing at IPL auction

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) roped in a number of quality players at the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. RCB spent huge money to acquire the services of the likes of Harshal Patel, Sri Lanka all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga and Faf du Plessis among others.

The franchise had headed into the auction aiming for a major overhaul after Virat Kohli's resignation from captaincy last year and AB de Villiers' retirement from all forms of cricket. While they bought some experienced players to strengthen their squad, the franchise also added a number of youngsters to the setup.

Among the youngsters, RCB picked uncapped Indian all-rounder Mahipal Lomror in a deal worth just Rs 75 lakh (INR 7.5 million). Lomror, who has played for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL in the past, said he was not expecting RCB to go for him at the IPL 2022 mega auction. In fact, the 22-year-old believed RCB will be the last team to pick him at the auction.

However, he was in for a surprise as RCB competed with the Royals for his signature and managed to get him at the auction. Lomror revealed he had never gone for trials at RCB or spoken with anyone from the team management in the past but is happy to get a chance to work with the likes of Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik who are all part of the franchise.

"Before auction, I thought RCB is the last team which is going to pick me. Surprisingly, they bought me. I had never spoken to anyone from the management. &nbsp;I never went to trials for RCB and neither, I had never talked to any management guy (from RCB) over a phone call or in person. So, I was a bit surprised. After the auction, Mike Hesson Sir called me, I got a call from Sanjay Bangar Sir as well," Lomror told Crictracker.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mayank-agarwal-or-shikhar-dhawan-punjab-kings-co-owner-hints-at-teams-next-captain-ahead-of-ipl-2022-454398">Mayank Agarwal or Shikhar Dhawan? Punjab Kings co-owner hints at team's next captain ahead of IPL 2022</a>

"I am really happy that I am a part of RCB this time around. Obviously, there’s a lot to learn from not just Maxi but also from the likes of Virat Kohli and Dinesh Karthik, who are really experienced players and two of the greats in our country. So, I am looking forward to learn a lot from them. Specially Maxi, he’s a great finisher in World cricket. So, I would like to learn a lot from him," he added.

While the likes of Du Plessis and Maxwell are favourites to take over as the new captain of RCB, the franchise is yet to take the final call on their next skipper. RCB have finished in the playoffs for the past two consecutive seasons but are yet to lift their maiden IPL trophy.

&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) roped in a number of quality players at the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. RCB spent huge money to acquire the services of the likes of Harshal Patel, Sri Lanka all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga and Faf du Plessis among others.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) roped in a number of quality players at the recently-concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. RCB spent huge money to acquire the services of the likes of Harshal Patel, Sri Lanka all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga and Faf du Plessis among others. The franchise had headed into the auction aiming for a major overhaul after Virat Kohli's resignation from captaincy last year and AB de Villiers' retirement from all forms of cricket. While they bought some experienced players to strengthen their squad, the franchise also added a number of youngsters to the setup. Among the youngsters, RCB picked uncapped Indian all-rounder Mahipal Lomror in a deal worth just Rs 75 lakh (INR 7.5 million). Lomror, who has played for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL in the past, said he was not expecting RCB to go for him at the IPL 2022 mega auction. In fact, the 22-year-old believed RCB will be the last team to pick him at the auction. However, he was in for a surprise as RCB competed with the Royals for his signature and managed to get him at the auction. Lomror revealed he had never gone for trials at RCB or spoken with anyone from the team management in the past but is happy to get a chance to work with the likes of Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik who are all part of the franchise. "Before auction, I thought RCB is the last team which is going to pick me. Surprisingly, they bought me. I had never spoken to anyone from the management. I never went to trials for RCB and neither, I had never talked to any management guy (from RCB) over a phone call or in person. So, I was a bit surprised. After the auction, Mike Hesson Sir called me, I got a call from Sanjay Bangar Sir as well," Lomror told Crictracker. Also Read: Mayank Agarwal or Shikhar Dhawan? Punjab Kings co-owner hints at team's next captain ahead of IPL 2022 "I am really happy that I am a part of RCB this time around. Obviously, there’s a lot to learn from not just Maxi but also from the likes of Virat Kohli and Dinesh Karthik, who are really experienced players and two of the greats in our country. So, I am looking forward to learn a lot from them. Specially Maxi, he’s a great finisher in World cricket. So, I would like to learn a lot from him," he added. While the likes of Du Plessis and Maxwell are favourites to take over as the new captain of RCB, the franchise is yet to take the final call on their next skipper. RCB have finished in the playoffs for the past two consecutive seasons but are yet to lift their maiden IPL trophy.

Never went for trials, never spoke with anyone: Indian youngster surprised to be picked by RCB at IPL auction

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a much-awaited affair. The two-day event was held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. During the course of the auction, as many as 590 players went under the hammer. Many marquee players earned whopping deals whereas some uncapped and inexperienced cricketers also returned with&nbsp;big-fat cheques.

On the other hand, some iconic and popular T20 players went unsold. The auction saw bidding wars for many players as the ten IPL franchises fought hard as the eight existing teams had to revamp whereas the two new additions -- in the form of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Gujarat Titans (GT) -- build their sides from scratch.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-jason-holder-to-tim-david-5-underrated-overseas-stars-who-fetched-big-fat-cheques-at-mega-auction-454108">From Jason Holder to Tim David: 5 underrated overseas stars who fetched big-fat cheques at mega auction</a>

Here's the maximum number of players bid by IPL franchises at mega auction (as per a report in ESPNCricinfo):

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) - 50 
Delhi Capitals (DC) - 49 
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)&nbsp;-&nbsp;48 
Rajasthan Royals (RR) -&nbsp;45 
Mumbai Indians (MI) -&nbsp;45 
LSG -&nbsp;44 
Punjab Kings (PBKS) -&nbsp;43 
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) - 38 
GT -&nbsp;37 
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) - 35

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2022-top-5-players-who-failed-to-draw-a-single-bid-and-went-unsold-at-mega-auction-453287">IPL 2022 Unsold Players' List: Top 5 stars who failed to draw a single bid at mega auction</a>

CSK topping the list might surprise many as there were quite a few occasions when they had not bid for any player. On the other hand, the Rishabh Pant-led DC camp were on a roll, joining the bidding war on many occasions. Nonetheless, they are just one behind the defending champions on the list.

The IPL 2022 edition is set to be held in India, starting in late March. BCCI will host the group stage in Maharashtra whereas a call on the venues for the knockouts is yet to be revealed.

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a much-awaited affair. The two-day event was held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. During the course of the auction, as many as 590 players went under the hammer.

The IPL 2022 mega auction was a much-awaited affair. The two-day event was held in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. During the course of the auction, as many as 590 players went under the hammer. Many marquee players earned whopping deals whereas some uncapped and inexperienced cricketers also returned with big-fat cheques. On the other hand, some iconic and popular T20 players went unsold. The auction saw bidding wars for many players as the ten IPL franchises fought hard as the eight existing teams had to revamp whereas the two new additions -- in the form of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Gujarat Titans (GT) -- build their sides from scratch. ALSO READ | From Jason Holder to Tim David: 5 underrated overseas stars who fetched big-fat cheques at mega auction Here's the maximum number of players bid by IPL franchises at mega auction (as per a report in ESPNCricinfo): Chennai Super Kings (CSK) - 50 Delhi Capitals (DC) - 49 Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) - 48 Rajasthan Royals (RR) - 45 Mumbai Indians (MI) - 45 LSG - 44 Punjab Kings (PBKS) - 43 Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) - 38 GT - 37 Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) - 35 ALSO READ | IPL 2022 Unsold Players' List: Top 5 stars who failed to draw a single bid at mega auction CSK topping the list might surprise many as there were quite a few occasions when they had not bid for any player. On the other hand, the Rishabh Pant-led DC camp were on a roll, joining the bidding war on many occasions. Nonetheless, they are just one behind the defending champions on the list. The IPL 2022 edition is set to be held in India, starting in late March. BCCI will host the group stage in Maharashtra whereas a call on the venues for the knockouts is yet to be revealed.

DC, CSK, MI or RCB? Here's which franchise bid for maximum players at IPL 2022 mega auction

Mohammed Siraj has been one of the most improved cricketers for Team India in the recent past. His performances in the IPL 2020 edition, where he showed much control with the ball in powerplays and death overs, earned him a place in India's Test squad for the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.

Since then, life has changed for the 27-year-old pacer, who owes a lot of his success to former Indian and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)&nbsp;captain Virat Kohli. During IPL&nbsp;2018,&nbsp;Siraj had invited the RCB players to his house in Hyderabad. At first, Kohli had revealed he won't be able to make it, however, he turned up with his teammates; taking Siraj by surprise.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-your-property-heartwarming-tendulkar-reveals-why-he-returned-virat-kohlis-retirement-gift-454035">This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift</a>

Recalling the whole incident, Siraj said on the RCB podcast, "I had invited everyone from RCB to my house for dinner. I went home straight from the hotel. When I called him (Virat) up, he said "I have a stiff back miyan, I can't come." I told him to rest. What more could I say."

"But, when everyone came, I saw him get off the car. Everyone was there, PP (Parthiv Patel) Bhai, Chahal Bhai. I just ran towards Bhaiya (Virat) and hugged him. It was the best surprise of my life. Because Bhaiya (Virat) had said he won't come. It became news, Virat Kohli has come to Toli Chowki," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-set-to-take-over-as-indias-test-captain-virat-kohli-to-miss-t20is-against-sri-lanka-report-454310">Rohit Sharma set to take over as India's Test captain, Virat Kohli to miss T20Is against Sri Lanka - Report</a>

Back then, Siraj had shared an image with his RCB mates enjoying food at his home via a post on his Instagram handle. He had captioned&nbsp;it: "It was an honour for me and my Family to welcome you all. Thanks a lot for taking out your precious time and joining us at place for dinner. It really means a lot."

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At present, Siraj is part of India's T20I series versus West Indies at home. He was among the three retentions by RCB, along with Kohli and Glenn Maxwell, for INR 80 million ahead of IPL 2022 mega auction. This year's season is expected to kickoff on late&nbsp;March.

Mohammed Siraj has been one of the most improved cricketers for Team India in the recent past. His performances in the IPL 2020 edition, where he showed much control with the ball in powerplays and death overs, earned him a place in India's Test squad for the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.

Mohammed Siraj has been one of the most improved cricketers for Team India in the recent past. His performances in the IPL 2020 edition, where he showed much control with the ball in powerplays and death overs, earned him a place in India's Test squad for the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Since then, life has changed for the 27-year-old pacer, who owes a lot of his success to former Indian and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) captain Virat Kohli. During IPL 2018, Siraj had invited the RCB players to his house in Hyderabad. At first, Kohli had revealed he won't be able to make it, however, he turned up with his teammates; taking Siraj by surprise. ALSO READ | This is your property: Heartwarming! Tendulkar reveals why he returned Virat Kohli's retirement gift Recalling the whole incident, Siraj said on the RCB podcast, "I had invited everyone from RCB to my house for dinner. I went home straight from the hotel. When I called him (Virat) up, he said "I have a stiff back miyan, I can't come." I told him to rest. What more could I say." "But, when everyone came, I saw him get off the car. Everyone was there, PP (Parthiv Patel) Bhai, Chahal Bhai. I just ran towards Bhaiya (Virat) and hugged him. It was the best surprise of my life. Because Bhaiya (Virat) had said he won't come. It became news, Virat Kohli has come to Toli Chowki," he added. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma set to take over as India's Test captain, Virat Kohli to miss T20Is against Sri Lanka - Report Back then, Siraj had shared an image with his RCB mates enjoying food at his home via a post on his Instagram handle. He had captioned it: "It was an honour for me and my Family to welcome you all. Thanks a lot for taking out your precious time and joining us at place for dinner. It really means a lot." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mohammed Siraj (@mohammedsirajofficial) × At present, Siraj is part of India's T20I series versus West Indies at home. He was among the three retentions by RCB, along with Kohli and Glenn Maxwell, for INR 80 million ahead of IPL 2022 mega auction. This year's season is expected to kickoff on late March.

I just ran towards Virat Kohli and hugged him: RCB pacer Md Siraj recalls 'best surprise of life'

The IPL 2022 mega auction lived upto expectations. As many as 590 players went under the hammer as many marquee players attained whopping deals whereas some big players also went unsold. Talking about Harshal Patel, the 31-year-old fast-bowling all-rounder wasn't retained by the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Harshal ended with 32 wickets -- joined most scalps&nbsp;in a&nbsp;season along with Dwayne Bravo -- and the Purple Cap in the IPL 2021 edition. However, the death-over specialist was brought back by the Bengaluru-based franchise for a whopping INR 107.5 million (INR 10.75 crore). Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Harshal and feels he deserves every penny earned at the mega auction.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/1st-t20i-we-are-not-even-talking-about-him-aakash-chopra-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-string-of-low-scores-453996">'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI</a>

"Look he deserves every penny, every rupee that he’s earned at the auction. He put in a fabulous performance last year. And the best part about Harshal Patel is how he has reinvented himself. Earlier, he was a bowler batters were looking to face because he hardly had any change of pace. He was being taken for a lot of runs. He is learning from it, he has improved from that. Now, he is the bowler that batters do not want to face because they don’t know what he is going to bowl," Gavaskar said to Star Sports.

He further asserted, “He has got a very good yorker. He has got a slower bouncer. He has got a delivery that skids along quite nicely so he has got the works and he knows when to use it because of the experience he has had playing in the IPL for the last few years. He has only got better every year."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-wi-1st-t20i-im-saying-it-how-virat-kohli-convinced-skipper-rohit-sharma-to-take-drs-watch-453958">India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch</a>

Harshal was one of the star performers for Team India in the first T20I versus West Indies, at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday (February 16). Being asked to bat first, Kieron Pollard-led WI managed only 157-7 courtesy Harshal and Ravi Bishnoi's two wickets apiece before Rohit's 19-ball 40 and unbeaten stand between Suryakumar Yadav-Venkatesh Iyer propelled India to a six-wicket win.

Harshal is&nbsp;becoming a regular in the T20I setup and is in the reckoning to be in Team India's squad for the 2022&nbsp;World Cup.

The IPL 2022 mega auction lived upto expectations. As many as 590 players went under the hammer as many marquee players attained whopping deals whereas some big players also went unsold.

The IPL 2022 mega auction lived upto expectations. As many as 590 players went under the hammer as many marquee players attained whopping deals whereas some big players also went unsold. Talking about Harshal Patel, the 31-year-old fast-bowling all-rounder wasn't retained by the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Harshal ended with 32 wickets -- joined most scalps in a season along with Dwayne Bravo -- and the Purple Cap in the IPL 2021 edition. However, the death-over specialist was brought back by the Bengaluru-based franchise for a whopping INR 107.5 million (INR 10.75 crore). Little Master Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Harshal and feels he deserves every penny earned at the mega auction. ALSO READ | 'We're not even talking about him'- Chopra reacts to string of low scores from Kohli after 1st T20I vs WI "Look he deserves every penny, every rupee that he’s earned at the auction. He put in a fabulous performance last year. And the best part about Harshal Patel is how he has reinvented himself. Earlier, he was a bowler batters were looking to face because he hardly had any change of pace. He was being taken for a lot of runs. He is learning from it, he has improved from that. Now, he is the bowler that batters do not want to face because they don’t know what he is going to bowl," Gavaskar said to Star Sports. He further asserted, “He has got a very good yorker. He has got a slower bouncer. He has got a delivery that skids along quite nicely so he has got the works and he knows when to use it because of the experience he has had playing in the IPL for the last few years. He has only got better every year." ALSO READ | India vs WI, 1st T20I: 'I’m saying it' - How Virat Kohli convinced skipper Rohit Sharma to take DRS - Watch Harshal was one of the star performers for Team India in the first T20I versus West Indies, at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata on Wednesday (February 16). Being asked to bat first, Kieron Pollard-led WI managed only 157-7 courtesy Harshal and Ravi Bishnoi's two wickets apiece before Rohit's 19-ball 40 and unbeaten stand between Suryakumar Yadav-Venkatesh Iyer propelled India to a six-wicket win. Harshal is becoming a regular in the T20I setup and is in the reckoning to be in Team India's squad for the 2022 World Cup.

He deserves every penny earned at IPL mega auction: Sunil Gavaskar lavishes huge praise on Indian star

Australian batsman Glenn Maxwell is all set to miss the country's historic tour of Pakistan which gets underway next month. Australia will be touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years. In the last decade, several international teams have refrained from playing in Pakistan due to security reasons after the infamous attack of the Sri Lankan cricket team's bus in Lahore in 2009.

However, Australia have become one of the major teams to agree to tour Pakistan and will be playing a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, three ODIs and a one-off T20I match against the Men in Green. Maxwell, who is one of the key members of the Australian squad, will miss the entire tour.

The star batter is currently in action for the Aussies in their ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka at home. During the third T20I between the two teams on Tuesday, Maxwell told host broadcaster Fox Cricket&nbsp;he will not be a part of the team's tour of Pakistan next month due to his wedding with fiancee Vini Raman.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/glenn-maxwell-set-to-tie-the-knot-with-indian-origin-fiancee-as-tamil-wedding-card-goes-viral-see-pic-453514">Glenn Maxwell set to tie the knot with Indian-origin fiancee as Tamil wedding card goes viral - See pic</a>

Maxwell revealed he had discussed the scheduling with Cricket Australia last year to avoid missing any series but at the time the Pakistan tour was not on. "Originally, when I organized the dates with CA there was a two-week gap where I could potentially have it. So when I sorted that out, I was pretty happy that I wasn't going to be missing in any series," Maxwell told Fox Sports, as per&nbsp;ESPNcricinfo.

"And then I came to the CA contract meeting midway through last year and they said, well this is [when] the Pakistan series [is on] and I thought, well obviously, that's changed since the last conversation we had," he added.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/quinton-de-kock-to-david-warner-top-5-steals-of-ipl-2022-mega-auction-453576">&nbsp;Quinton de Kock to David Warner: Top 5 steals of IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

While is all set to miss the entire tour of Pakistan, Maxwell is also likely to miss the start of the upcoming IPL 2022 due to his wedding. The likes of David Warner, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Marcus Stoinis and other Australian cricketers, who will be part of the Pakistan tour, will also miss the first few matches of IPL 2022 for their respective teams.

Maxwell, who remains one of the strong contenders to take over from Virat Kohli as the new captain of his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), might not be considered for the role now as he will miss the start of the season.

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Australian batsman Glenn Maxwell is all set to miss the country's historic tour of Pakistan which gets underway next month. Australia will be touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years.

Australian batsman Glenn Maxwell is all set to miss the country's historic tour of Pakistan which gets underway next month. Australia will be touring Pakistan for the first time in 24 years. In the last decade, several international teams have refrained from playing in Pakistan due to security reasons after the infamous attack of the Sri Lankan cricket team's bus in Lahore in 2009. However, Australia have become one of the major teams to agree to tour Pakistan and will be playing a full-fledged series consisting of three Tests, three ODIs and a one-off T20I match against the Men in Green. Maxwell, who is one of the key members of the Australian squad, will miss the entire tour. The star batter is currently in action for the Aussies in their ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka at home. During the third T20I between the two teams on Tuesday, Maxwell told host broadcaster Fox Cricket he will not be a part of the team's tour of Pakistan next month due to his wedding with fiancee Vini Raman. Also Read: Glenn Maxwell set to tie the knot with Indian-origin fiancee as Tamil wedding card goes viral - See pic Maxwell revealed he had discussed the scheduling with Cricket Australia last year to avoid missing any series but at the time the Pakistan tour was not on. "Originally, when I organized the dates with CA there was a two-week gap where I could potentially have it. So when I sorted that out, I was pretty happy that I wasn't going to be missing in any series," Maxwell told Fox Sports, as per ESPNcricinfo. "And then I came to the CA contract meeting midway through last year and they said, well this is [when] the Pakistan series [is on] and I thought, well obviously, that's changed since the last conversation we had," he added. Also Read: Quinton de Kock to David Warner: Top 5 steals of IPL 2022 mega auction While is all set to miss the entire tour of Pakistan, Maxwell is also likely to miss the start of the upcoming IPL 2022 due to his wedding. The likes of David Warner, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Marcus Stoinis and other Australian cricketers, who will be part of the Pakistan tour, will also miss the first few matches of IPL 2022 for their respective teams. Maxwell, who remains one of the strong contenders to take over from Virat Kohli as the new captain of his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), might not be considered for the role now as he will miss the start of the season.

Glenn Maxwell to miss Australia's tour of Pakistan and likely start of IPL 2022, here's why

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has picked the next captain for the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of the IPL 2022 edition. After the two-day mega auction was held in Bengaluru, RCB have picked a strong squad and have quite a few captaincy options to choose from.

The Bengaluru-based franchise have Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis (roped in for INR 70 million) and Dinesh Karthik, who has also led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) before, as the possible candidates who can succeed Kohli as the RCB skipper for IPL 2022. Amongst them, Gavaskar has named Maxwell as the ideal candidate.

For the unversed, Maxwell was part of RCB's IPL 2021 run, amassing 513 runs at&nbsp;42.75 along with 6 half-centuries. He was RCB's highest run-getter in&nbsp;last year's edition. Thus, the Aussie all-rounder was one of the three retentions from the franchise, at INR 110 million.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/royal-challengers-bangalore-complete-squad-for-ipl-2022-faf-du-plessis-to-captain-pace-heavy-line-up-453152">Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up?</a>

Gavaskar told Sports Tak, "I think if Glenn Maxwell is given the responsibility then a different kind of Maxwell will be seen in IPL. Last year he batted brilliantly probably keeping the mega auction in mind, but he was retained after that, which was good, I guess, for him.”&nbsp;

"We have often seen that players who bat well but score 30-40 runs quickly and get out without getting the job done- especially when suppose the team requires 70 or 80 runs more. But when these same players are given a responsibility then they played well showing better shot selection. So if Maxwell is given the captaincy, he will score more and play better," he said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-did-look-a-little-scared-gavaskar-explains-why-suresh-raina-went-unsold-at-ipl-2022-mega-auction-453400">'He did look a little scared' - Gavaskar explains why Suresh Raina went unsold at IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

After the mega auction, Mike Hesson, Director of Cricket Operations at RCB, opened up on the captaincy debate and said, "We have not had that discussion yet. We have three great leaders now in the form of Maxwell, Virat, and Faf du Plessis. We are really happy with those three leaders, we also have Josh Hazlewood as a leader from a bowling point of view. So we are happy with the group, we will make a decision regarding captaincy after the auction."

Complete squad of RCB for IPL 2022:

Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Harshal Patel, Faf du Plessis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood, Shahbaz Ahamad, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Behrendorff, Suyash Prabhudessai, Chama Milind, Aneeshwar Gautam, Karn Sharma,&nbsp;David Willey.&nbsp;

Squad strength:&nbsp;22 (14 - Indian, 8 - overseas)

Remaining purse: INR 15.5 million

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has picked the next captain for the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of the IPL 2022 edition. After the two-day mega auction was held in Bengaluru, RCB have picked a strong squad and have quite a few captaincy options to choose from.

Former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar has picked the next captain for the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) ahead of the IPL 2022 edition. After the two-day mega auction was held in Bengaluru, RCB have picked a strong squad and have quite a few captaincy options to choose from. The Bengaluru-based franchise have Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis (roped in for INR 70 million) and Dinesh Karthik, who has also led Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) before, as the possible candidates who can succeed Kohli as the RCB skipper for IPL 2022. Amongst them, Gavaskar has named Maxwell as the ideal candidate. For the unversed, Maxwell was part of RCB's IPL 2021 run, amassing 513 runs at 42.75 along with 6 half-centuries. He was RCB's highest run-getter in last year's edition. Thus, the Aussie all-rounder was one of the three retentions from the franchise, at INR 110 million. ALSO READ | Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up? Gavaskar told Sports Tak, "I think if Glenn Maxwell is given the responsibility then a different kind of Maxwell will be seen in IPL. Last year he batted brilliantly probably keeping the mega auction in mind, but he was retained after that, which was good, I guess, for him.” "We have often seen that players who bat well but score 30-40 runs quickly and get out without getting the job done- especially when suppose the team requires 70 or 80 runs more. But when these same players are given a responsibility then they played well showing better shot selection. So if Maxwell is given the captaincy, he will score more and play better," he said. ALSO READ | 'He did look a little scared' - Gavaskar explains why Suresh Raina went unsold at IPL 2022 mega auction After the mega auction, Mike Hesson, Director of Cricket Operations at RCB, opened up on the captaincy debate and said, "We have not had that discussion yet. We have three great leaders now in the form of Maxwell, Virat, and Faf du Plessis. We are really happy with those three leaders, we also have Josh Hazlewood as a leader from a bowling point of view. So we are happy with the group, we will make a decision regarding captaincy after the auction." Complete squad of RCB for IPL 2022: Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Harshal Patel, Faf du Plessis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood, Shahbaz Ahamad, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Behrendorff, Suyash Prabhudessai, Chama Milind, Aneeshwar Gautam, Karn Sharma, David Willey. Squad strength: 22 (14 - Indian, 8 - overseas) Remaining purse: INR 15.5 million

Not Faf du Plessis! Sunil Gavaskar picks Virat Kohli's successor at RCB for IPL 2022

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction took place in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. It was a star-studded affair as the ten IPL franchises sat down to wisely add more strengths to their respective squads. At the end of the pulsating two-day mega auction, all&nbsp;ten teams have tried to further bolster their respective line-ups ahead of the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India.

Talking about the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the three-time runners-up went into the auction pool with INR 570 million in their purse. The Bengaluru-based franchise went all-out to rope in some handy names whereas missed out on re-signing some players who were released prior to the mega auction.

RCB have churned out a well-balanced side this time around after the mega auction. The Bengaluru camp bought Faf du Plessis, former Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener, for INR 70 million (INR 7 crore) whereas spent a huge sum for re-signing Harshal Patel and Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga. Harshal was bought back for INR 107.5 million (INR 10.75 crore) whereas the No. 1 T20I bowler Hasaranga was also re-acquired for the same amount.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chennai-super-kings-complete-squad-for-ipl-2022-deepak-chahar-most-expensive-in-raina-less-line-up-453033">Chennai Super Kings complete squad for IPL 2022: Deepak Chahar most expensive in Raina-less line-up</a>

On Day 2 of the mega auction, the RCB camp added more uncapped players and also bolstered their pace department by signing Australia's Josh Hazlewood and Jason Behrendroff. Among the uncapped list, they have included the likes of Shahbaz Ahamad, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Mahipal Lomror. RCB have also roped in former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper Dinesh Karthik -- who was&nbsp;a part of the Bengaluru side in 2015 -- for INR 55 million (INR 5.5 crore). He will surely add to their batting lower down the order.

Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Karn Sharma, David Willey are also some known names in the format, who will add experience to the line-up.

Prior to the mega auction, RCB had retained former skipper Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Md. Siraj. It will be interesting to see who will be named the captain. As of now, it seems like 37-year-old Faf du Plessis is a frontrunner, having been acquired for over INR 50 million.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-no-1-t20i-bowler-wanindu-hasaranga-bought-by-kohli-starrer-rcb-for-rs-1075-crore-452650">IPL 2022 mega auction: No. 1 T20I bowler Wanindu Hasaranga bought by Kohli-starrer RCB for Rs 10.75 crore</a>

Complete squad of RCB for IPL 2022:

Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Harshal Patel, Faf du Plessis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood, Shahbaz Ahamad, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Behrendorff, Suyash Prabhudessai, Chama Milind, Aneeshwar Gautam, Karn Sharma,&nbsp;David Willey.&nbsp;

Squad strength:&nbsp;22 (14 - Indian, 8 - overseas)

Remaining purse: INR 15.5 million

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction took place in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. It was a star-studded affair as the ten IPL franchises sat down to wisely add more strengths to their respective squads.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction took place in Bengaluru on February 12 and 13. It was a star-studded affair as the ten IPL franchises sat down to wisely add more strengths to their respective squads. At the end of the pulsating two-day mega auction, all ten teams have tried to further bolster their respective line-ups ahead of the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, set to be held in India. Talking about the Virat Kohli-starrer Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the three-time runners-up went into the auction pool with INR 570 million in their purse. The Bengaluru-based franchise went all-out to rope in some handy names whereas missed out on re-signing some players who were released prior to the mega auction. RCB have churned out a well-balanced side this time around after the mega auction. The Bengaluru camp bought Faf du Plessis, former Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) opener, for INR 70 million (INR 7 crore) whereas spent a huge sum for re-signing Harshal Patel and Sri Lanka's Wanindu Hasaranga. Harshal was bought back for INR 107.5 million (INR 10.75 crore) whereas the No. 1 T20I bowler Hasaranga was also re-acquired for the same amount. ALSO READ | Chennai Super Kings complete squad for IPL 2022: Deepak Chahar most expensive in Raina-less line-up On Day 2 of the mega auction, the RCB camp added more uncapped players and also bolstered their pace department by signing Australia's Josh Hazlewood and Jason Behrendroff. Among the uncapped list, they have included the likes of Shahbaz Ahamad, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Mahipal Lomror. RCB have also roped in former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) skipper Dinesh Karthik -- who was a part of the Bengaluru side in 2015 -- for INR 55 million (INR 5.5 crore). He will surely add to their batting lower down the order. Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Karn Sharma, David Willey are also some known names in the format, who will add experience to the line-up. Prior to the mega auction, RCB had retained former skipper Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Md. Siraj. It will be interesting to see who will be named the captain. As of now, it seems like 37-year-old Faf du Plessis is a frontrunner, having been acquired for over INR 50 million. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction: No. 1 T20I bowler Wanindu Hasaranga bought by Kohli-starrer RCB for Rs 10.75 crore Complete squad of RCB for IPL 2022: Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj, Harshal Patel, Faf du Plessis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood, Shahbaz Ahamad, Anuj Rawat, Akash Deep, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Behrendorff, Suyash Prabhudessai, Chama Milind, Aneeshwar Gautam, Karn Sharma, David Willey. Squad strength: 22 (14 - Indian, 8 - overseas) Remaining purse: INR 15.5 million

Royal Challengers Bangalore complete squad for IPL 2022: Faf du Plessis to captain pace-heavy line-up?

The first day of the Indian Premier League 2022 mega auction is over after the franchises bid for players to create their core team. On Day 1, a total of Rs 3.88 billion was spent by all 10 franchises and 74 players were sold, including 20 overseas.&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have spent a total of Rs 80.75 crore so far and the amount available with them is Rs 9.25 crore.&nbsp;

During the first day of the auction, RCB bought Faf du Plessis, Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood, Anuj Rawat and Akash Deep. They also acquired last year's players Harshal Patel and Wanindu Hasaranga.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/complete-list-of-players-sold-on-day-1-of-ipl-2022-mega-auction-kishan-chahar-emerge-as-costliest-buys-452791">Complete list of players sold on Day 1 of IPL 2022 mega auction: Kishan, Chahar emerge as costliest buys</a>

Giving a major hint on the captaincy in the upcoming edition of the world richest cricket league, Mike Hesson, who is the Director of Cricket Operations at RCB has said the franchise will decide on their captain once the auction is over.&nbsp;

"We haven't had that discussion yet. We have got three incredible leaders in our group. The likes of Maxwell, Virat and Faf so we are really happy with those three leaders. Also, we got Josh Hazlewood, a leader from a bowling point of view. We are really happy with the group in terms of combination leaders. We will make the decision around captaincy after the auction," said Hesson in the virtual press conference.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-ishan-kishan-to-yuvraj-singh-top-five-most-expensive-indian-buys-in-ipl-auction-452712">From Ishan Kishan to Yuvraj Singh: Top five most expensive Indian buys in IPL auction</a>

India's star batter Virat Kohli had stepped down as skipper of the RCB team after IPL 2021. Kohli was appointed as RCB's captain during IPL 2012 and led the team in 140 matches and won 64.

Hesson expressed delight over buying back Patel, who was the leading wicket-taker in the 2021 edition with 32 wickets and made his India T20I debut against New Zealand last year.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClassOf2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClassOf2022</a> shaping up well for us. 🤩 
 
We look forward to Day 2️⃣ tomorrow! 😎<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLMegaAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLMegaAuction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLAuction</a> <a href="https://t.co/GJWZIGYJN8">pic.twitter.com/GJWZIGYJN8</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1492538533541646341?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"We are very happy as a group. We worked very hard in trying to get back a lot of our core for this year. It became pretty difficult on a few occasions. But we were delighted to get Harshal Patel back," he added.&nbsp;

While concluding, Hesson said that RCB still have lots of work to do on the second and final day of the mega auction. "We have got some work to do tomorrow and not getting too far ahead of ourselves," he said.&nbsp;

The first day of the Indian Premier League 2022 mega auction is over after the franchises bid for players to create their core team. On Day 1, a total of Rs 3.88 billion was spent by all 10 franchises and 74 players were sold, including 20 overseas.

The first day of the Indian Premier League 2022 mega auction is over after the franchises bid for players to create their core team. On Day 1, a total of Rs 3.88 billion was spent by all 10 franchises and 74 players were sold, including 20 overseas. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have spent a total of Rs 80.75 crore so far and the amount available with them is Rs 9.25 crore. During the first day of the auction, RCB bought Faf du Plessis, Dinesh Karthik, Josh Hazlewood, Anuj Rawat and Akash Deep. They also acquired last year's players Harshal Patel and Wanindu Hasaranga. ALSO READ | Complete list of players sold on Day 1 of IPL 2022 mega auction: Kishan, Chahar emerge as costliest buys Giving a major hint on the captaincy in the upcoming edition of the world richest cricket league, Mike Hesson, who is the Director of Cricket Operations at RCB has said the franchise will decide on their captain once the auction is over. "We haven't had that discussion yet. We have got three incredible leaders in our group. The likes of Maxwell, Virat and Faf so we are really happy with those three leaders. Also, we got Josh Hazlewood, a leader from a bowling point of view. We are really happy with the group in terms of combination leaders. We will make the decision around captaincy after the auction," said Hesson in the virtual press conference. ALSO READ | From Ishan Kishan to Yuvraj Singh: Top five most expensive Indian buys in IPL auction India's star batter Virat Kohli had stepped down as skipper of the RCB team after IPL 2021. Kohli was appointed as RCB's captain during IPL 2012 and led the team in 140 matches and won 64. Hesson expressed delight over buying back Patel, who was the leading wicket-taker in the 2021 edition with 32 wickets and made his India T20I debut against New Zealand last year. #ClassOf2022 shaping up well for us. 🤩 We look forward to Day 2️⃣ tomorrow! 😎#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #IPLMegaAuction #IPL2022 #IPLAuction pic.twitter.com/GJWZIGYJN8 — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) February 12, 2022 × "We are very happy as a group. We worked very hard in trying to get back a lot of our core for this year. It became pretty difficult on a few occasions. But we were delighted to get Harshal Patel back," he added. While concluding, Hesson said that RCB still have lots of work to do on the second and final day of the mega auction. "We have got some work to do tomorrow and not getting too far ahead of ourselves," he said.

IPL 2022 auction: Royal Challengers Bangalore give update on decision around captaincy

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) made some brilliant picks on day one of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on Saturday (February 12). With Virat Kohli stepping down from captaincy last season, RCB were looking for a potential captaincy candidate at the mega auction and have managed to rope in some experienced IPL campaigners, who can take up the leadership role at the franchise.

RCB have bought the likes of Faf du Plessis and Dinesh Karthik, who have a plethora of experience when it comes to the IPL and have been part of the league for several years now. While Glenn Maxwell, who was retained by the franchise, is being seen as one of the favourites to lead the side in IPL 2022, Du Plessis and Karthik are also among potential captaincy candidates for the side.

Indian pacer Harshal Patel, who was one of the top buys for RCB at the IPL 2022 mega auction for a sum of whopping Rs 10.75 crore, backed Du Plessis as one of the candidates to take over from Kohli as captain of the team.&nbsp;

"I don't know, I haven't had any chat with anybody at the RCB management, but Faf is, in my opinion. He has led South Africa very well and is a potential candidate, but I certainly can't say," Harshal said on Star Sports when asked about the potential captaincy replacement for Kohli.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/never-spoke-to-ms-dhoni-about-retention-always-knew-csk-would-get-me-back-deepak-chahar-452977">Never spoke to MS Dhoni about retention, always knew CSK would get me back: Deepak Chahar</a>

Apart from Du Plessis, Karthik and Harshal, RCB made some great signings at the IPL mega auction as they focused on strengthening their bowling and batting department significantly.&nbsp;

RCB roped in Australian pacers Josh Hazlewood and Jason Behrendorff for a sum of Rs 7.75 crore (INR 77.5 million) and Rs 75 lakh (INR 7.5 million) respectively. They also managed to buy some quality all-rounders in the form of Wanindu Hasranga and Sherfane Rutherford.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liam-livingstone-is-a-gamble-sanjay-manjrekar-on-punjab-kings-spending-rs-115-crore-on-england-star-452923">'Liam Livingstone is a gamble': Sanjay Manjrekar on Punjab Kings spending Rs 11.5 crore on England star</a>

With Kohli taking a back seat this time around, it remains to be seen who will lead RCB in the upcoming season.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) made some brilliant picks on day one of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on Saturday (February 12). With Virat Kohli stepping down from captaincy last season, RCB were looking for a potential captaincy candidate at the mega auction and have managed to rope in some experienced IPL campaigners, who can take up the leadership role at the franchise.

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) made some brilliant picks on day one of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on Saturday (February 12). With Virat Kohli stepping down from captaincy last season, RCB were looking for a potential captaincy candidate at the mega auction and have managed to rope in some experienced IPL campaigners, who can take up the leadership role at the franchise. RCB have bought the likes of Faf du Plessis and Dinesh Karthik, who have a plethora of experience when it comes to the IPL and have been part of the league for several years now. While Glenn Maxwell, who was retained by the franchise, is being seen as one of the favourites to lead the side in IPL 2022, Du Plessis and Karthik are also among potential captaincy candidates for the side. Indian pacer Harshal Patel, who was one of the top buys for RCB at the IPL 2022 mega auction for a sum of whopping Rs 10.75 crore, backed Du Plessis as one of the candidates to take over from Kohli as captain of the team. "I don't know, I haven't had any chat with anybody at the RCB management, but Faf is, in my opinion. He has led South Africa very well and is a potential candidate, but I certainly can't say," Harshal said on Star Sports when asked about the potential captaincy replacement for Kohli. Also Read: Never spoke to MS Dhoni about retention, always knew CSK would get me back: Deepak Chahar Apart from Du Plessis, Karthik and Harshal, RCB made some great signings at the IPL mega auction as they focused on strengthening their bowling and batting department significantly. RCB roped in Australian pacers Josh Hazlewood and Jason Behrendorff for a sum of Rs 7.75 crore (INR 77.5 million) and Rs 75 lakh (INR 7.5 million) respectively. They also managed to buy some quality all-rounders in the form of Wanindu Hasranga and Sherfane Rutherford. Also Read: 'Liam Livingstone is a gamble': Sanjay Manjrekar on Punjab Kings spending Rs 11.5 crore on England star With Kohli taking a back seat this time around, it remains to be seen who will lead RCB in the upcoming season.

'He is a potential candidate': Harshal Patel picks RCB's new signing who can replace Virat Kohli as captain

Former South Africa batter Faf du Plessis has been acquired by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for Rs 7 crore in the IPL 2022 mega auction and as per the speculations, he could be the next RCB skipper.&nbsp;

Du Plessis was with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and emerged as a vital cog for the team, leading the Men in Yellow to victory on several occasions.&nbsp;

Now, the RCB team would expect a similar performance from him as they will eye their maiden IPL trophy in the upcoming season.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-wasnt-handled-well-dc-co-owners-dig-at-kkr-management-as-kuldeep-joins-pant-co-452938">He wasn't handled well: DC co-owner's dig at KKR management as Kuldeep joins Pant &amp; Co.</a>

On Saturday, Aakash Chopra told Star Sports: "100 per cent. In my opinion, he is their captain. They will eventually announce it for sure. Otherwise, they wouldn't have gone that hard for that long because there are other options available."&nbsp;

"If you are looking only at openers, there were options and there will be more in the likes of Jonny Bairstow, Jason Roy. They did not go for someone like a Warner or Quinton de Kock," Chopra added.&nbsp;

For the unversed, India's star batter Virat Kohli had stepped down as skipper of the RCB team after IPL 2021. Kohli was appointed as RCB's captain during IPL 2012 and led the team in 140 matches and won 64.

Mike Hesson, who is the Director of Cricket Operations at RCB has said the franchise will decide on their captain once the auction is over.&nbsp;

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Joining RCB’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ClassOf2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ClassOf2022</a>: 
 
Name: FAF du Plessis 
Price: 7 CR 
 
Welcome to the family! 🤩<a href="https://twitter.com/faf1307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@faf1307</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayBold?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayBold</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeAreChallengers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeAreChallengers</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLMegaAuction?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLMegaAuction</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/wnEbvndOXV">pic.twitter.com/wnEbvndOXV</a>
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1492398611111428102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"I just want to thank Chennai, the fans, the staff and management and players for what has been a decade as one team. We created a lot of special memories and it's important for me to say 'thank you'," said Du Plessis in a video posted by CSK on Twitter.&nbsp;

"I've enjoyed my time a lot, I miss everyone there. But if one door closes and a new one opens up and that comes up with great opportunities and I'm excited to see what the future holds," he added.&nbsp;

Former South Africa batter Faf du Plessis has been acquired by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for Rs 7 crore in the IPL 2022 mega auction and as per the speculations, he could be the next RCB skipper.

Former South Africa batter Faf du Plessis has been acquired by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for Rs 7 crore in the IPL 2022 mega auction and as per the speculations, he could be the next RCB skipper. Du Plessis was with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and emerged as a vital cog for the team, leading the Men in Yellow to victory on several occasions. Now, the RCB team would expect a similar performance from him as they will eye their maiden IPL trophy in the upcoming season. ALSO READ | He wasn't handled well: DC co-owner's dig at KKR management as Kuldeep joins Pant & Co. On Saturday, Aakash Chopra told Star Sports: "100 per cent. In my opinion, he is their captain. They will eventually announce it for sure. Otherwise, they wouldn't have gone that hard for that long because there are other options available." "If you are looking only at openers, there were options and there will be more in the likes of Jonny Bairstow, Jason Roy. They did not go for someone like a Warner or Quinton de Kock," Chopra added. For the unversed, India's star batter Virat Kohli had stepped down as skipper of the RCB team after IPL 2021. Kohli was appointed as RCB's captain during IPL 2012 and led the team in 140 matches and won 64. Mike Hesson, who is the Director of Cricket Operations at RCB has said the franchise will decide on their captain once the auction is over. Joining RCB’s #ClassOf2022: Name: FAF du Plessis Price: 7 CR Welcome to the family! 🤩@faf1307 #PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #IPLMegaAuction #IPL2022 pic.twitter.com/wnEbvndOXV — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) February 12, 2022 × "I just want to thank Chennai, the fans, the staff and management and players for what has been a decade as one team. We created a lot of special memories and it's important for me to say 'thank you'," said Du Plessis in a video posted by CSK on Twitter. "I've enjoyed my time a lot, I miss everyone there. But if one door closes and a new one opens up and that comes up with great opportunities and I'm excited to see what the future holds," he added.

IPL 2022 auction: Will Faf du Plessis be new Royal Challengers Bangalore captain?

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) shelled out a huge amount of money to buy back Indian pacer Harshal Patel at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on Saturday (February 12). RCB, who had chosen not to retain Patel after his brilliant campaign with the ball in IPL 2021 last year, had to break the bank to get him back at the mega auction as they bought him for a staggering sum of Rs 10.75 crore (INR 107.5 million).

After roping in South African batter Faf du Plessis for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million), RCB went big when Patel's name was announced at the mega auction. They managed to beat competition from the likes of Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad to get Harshal back.

The 31-year-old&nbsp;pacer, who made his international debut for India in November last year, was the Purple Cap winner in IPl 2021 for being the highest wicket-taker of the season with 32 wickets in 15 matches for RCB. He saw his stakes rise dramatically at the mega auction this year after opting for a base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million).

Patel was roped in by Delhi Capitals at his base price of just Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) in the IPL auction in 2018. He was traded to RCB ahead of the start of IPL 2021 last year where he bowled his heart out in what turned out to be a record-breaking campaign for the right-arm pacer.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/auctioneer-hugh-edmeades-collapses-on-stage-as-ipl-2022-mega-auction-comes-to-sudden-halt-452616">Auctioneer Hugh Edmeades collapses on stage as IPL 2022 mega auction comes to sudden halt</a>

From earning Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) last year, Patel will now be drawing a salary of a whopping Rs 10.75 crore (INR 107.5 million) per season at RCB. RCB had earlier opted to retain Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj ahead of the mega auction and have strengthened by getting both Du Plessis and Patel.

Though he has been around for quite a while now in the IPL, Harshal has so far played only 63 matches in his IPL career and has 78 wickets to his name.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) shelled out a huge amount of money to buy back Indian pacer Harshal Patel at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on Saturday (February 12).

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) shelled out a huge amount of money to buy back Indian pacer Harshal Patel at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction on Saturday (February 12). RCB, who had chosen not to retain Patel after his brilliant campaign with the ball in IPL 2021 last year, had to break the bank to get him back at the mega auction as they bought him for a staggering sum of Rs 10.75 crore (INR 107.5 million). After roping in South African batter Faf du Plessis for a sum of Rs 7 crore (INR 70 million), RCB went big when Patel's name was announced at the mega auction. They managed to beat competition from the likes of Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad to get Harshal back. The 31-year-old pacer, who made his international debut for India in November last year, was the Purple Cap winner in IPl 2021 for being the highest wicket-taker of the season with 32 wickets in 15 matches for RCB. He saw his stakes rise dramatically at the mega auction this year after opting for a base price of Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million). Patel was roped in by Delhi Capitals at his base price of just Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) in the IPL auction in 2018. He was traded to RCB ahead of the start of IPL 2021 last year where he bowled his heart out in what turned out to be a record-breaking campaign for the right-arm pacer. Also Read: Auctioneer Hugh Edmeades collapses on stage as IPL 2022 mega auction comes to sudden halt From earning Rs 20 lakh (INR 2 million) last year, Patel will now be drawing a salary of a whopping Rs 10.75 crore (INR 107.5 million) per season at RCB. RCB had earlier opted to retain Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj ahead of the mega auction and have strengthened by getting both Du Plessis and Patel. Though he has been around for quite a while now in the IPL, Harshal has so far played only 63 matches in his IPL career and has 78 wickets to his name.

From Rs 20 lakh to Rs 10.75 crore! RCB break the bank for Harshal Patel at IPL 2022 mega auction

Less than 24 hours are left for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction to get underway in Bengaluru. The two-day event will be held on February 12 and 13 with all ten teams looking to rope in the best of talents from across the globe. As many as 590 players are set to go under the hammer at the IPL 2022 mega auction.

This year's mega auction will see the debut of the Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans, which are the two new teams to have been introduced to the IPL roster from the 2022 season. While the existing eight teams had been given an option to retain a maximum of four players each, the two new teams were allowed to pick at least three players from the players draft ahead of the mega auction.

All ten teams have been given a total purse of Rs 90 crore (INR 900 million) to&nbsp;spend at the mega auction and have to build their respective squads within the allotted budget. While some teams have retained four players, spending a sum of Rs 42 crore in total, some have retained only three players and have spent a lesser amount.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ms-dhoni-to-virat-kohli-a-look-at-first-ipl-salaries-of-superstar-cricketers-450783">MS Dhoni to Virat Kohli: A look at first IPL salaries of superstar cricketers</a>

While Punjab Kings have the highest amount remaining in their purse at Rs 72 crore (INR 720 crore), Delhi Capitals have the lowest remaining amount in their purse with Rs 47.5 crore (INR 475 million).&nbsp;Ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, here is a look at the remaining purse of all ten teams:

Punjab Kings - Rs 72 crore (INR 720 million)

Players retained -&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh,&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Mayank Agarwal&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Rajasthan Royals - ₹62 crore (INR 620 million)

Players retained -&nbsp;Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal

Lucknow Super Giants - ₹58 crore (INR 580 million)

Players retained - KL Rahul, Marcus Stoinis, Ravi Bishnoi

Royal Challengers Bangalore - ₹57 crore (INR 570 million)

Players retained - Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj

Gujarat Titans - ₹52 crore (INR 520 million)

Players retained -&nbsp;Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill

Chennai Super Kings - ₹48 crore (INR 480 million)

Players retained -&nbsp;Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Moeen Ali, Ruturaj Gaikwad

Mumbai Indians - ₹48 crore (INR 480 million)

Players retained - Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard, Suryakumar Yadav

Kolkata Knight Riders - ₹48 crore (INR 480 million)

Players retained -&nbsp;Andre Russell, Varun Chakaravarthy, Venkatesh Iyer, Sunil Narine

Delhi Capitals - ₹47.5 crore&nbsp;(INR 475&nbsp;million)

Players retained -&nbsp;Rishabh Pant, Prithvi Shaw, Axar Patel&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Anrich Nortje

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Less than 24 hours are left for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction to get underway in Bengaluru. The two-day event will be held on February 12 and 13 with all ten teams looking to rope in the best of talents from across the globe.

Less than 24 hours are left for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction to get underway in Bengaluru. The two-day event will be held on February 12 and 13 with all ten teams looking to rope in the best of talents from across the globe. As many as 590 players are set to go under the hammer at the IPL 2022 mega auction. This year's mega auction will see the debut of the Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans, which are the two new teams to have been introduced to the IPL roster from the 2022 season. While the existing eight teams had been given an option to retain a maximum of four players each, the two new teams were allowed to pick at least three players from the players draft ahead of the mega auction. All ten teams have been given a total purse of Rs 90 crore (INR 900 million) to spend at the mega auction and have to build their respective squads within the allotted budget. While some teams have retained four players, spending a sum of Rs 42 crore in total, some have retained only three players and have spent a lesser amount. Also Read: MS Dhoni to Virat Kohli: A look at first IPL salaries of superstar cricketers While Punjab Kings have the highest amount remaining in their purse at Rs 72 crore (INR 720 crore), Delhi Capitals have the lowest remaining amount in their purse with Rs 47.5 crore (INR 475 million). Ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, here is a look at the remaining purse of all ten teams: Punjab Kings - Rs 72 crore (INR 720 million) Players retained - Arshdeep Singh, Mayank Agarwal Rajasthan Royals - ₹62 crore (INR 620 million) Players retained - Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler, Yashasvi Jaiswal Lucknow Super Giants - ₹58 crore (INR 580 million) Players retained - KL Rahul, Marcus Stoinis, Ravi Bishnoi Royal Challengers Bangalore - ₹57 crore (INR 570 million) Players retained - Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Mohammed Siraj Gujarat Titans - ₹52 crore (INR 520 million) Players retained - Hardik Pandya, Rashid Khan, Shubman Gill Chennai Super Kings - ₹48 crore (INR 480 million) Players retained - Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Moeen Ali, Ruturaj Gaikwad Mumbai Indians - ₹48 crore (INR 480 million) Players retained - Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, Kieron Pollard, Suryakumar Yadav Kolkata Knight Riders - ₹48 crore (INR 480 million) Players retained - Andre Russell, Varun Chakaravarthy, Venkatesh Iyer, Sunil Narine Delhi Capitals - ₹47.5 crore (INR 475 million) Players retained - Rishabh Pant, Prithvi Shaw, Axar Patel Anrich Nortje

CSK to RCB: A look at the remaining purse of all ten teams ahead of IPL 2022 mega auction

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh believes Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will definitely target Team India's star wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. An explosive batter who can open the innings and bat in the middle-order as well, Kishan has seen his stakes rise in the last couple of years, owing to his exploits in the IPL and international cricket.

Kishan was released by Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL mega auction this year and is among the top Indian players to watch out for at the two-day event in Bengaluru on Saturday and Sunday. Kishan had played an instrumental role in Mumbai India's title triumph in IPL 2020 where he notched up 516 runs in 14 games. He can provide much-needed versatility in RCB's batting line-up with his ability to strike the ball from the word go.

Ahead of the IPL mega auction, Harbhajan has predicted a bidding war for the young keeper-batter, who has listed his base price at Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million). Harbhajan believes RCB, who are also looking for a new captain after Virat Kohli's decision to quit captaincy, can rope in Kishan and groom him in a leadership role in the long term.

"Ishan Kishan is someone I am a fan of. On his own capability, on any given day, he can smash 70-80 runs off 30 balls and win the match for his team. He will become a very big player in the time to come. If a player like him goes to any team, he should be given the responsibility of leadership," Harbhajan said in a video on his YouTube channel.

"The way he gets older, with responsibilities, he will become even bigger. He already captains Jharkhand. RCB would definitely target Ishan Kishan in the auction. It will be tough because many teams would go after him at the auction," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-dates-timings-and-venue-all-you-need-to-know-451440">IPL 2022 mega auction dates, timings and venue: All you need to know</a>

Mumbai Indians had to let go of Kishan as they decided to retain captain Rohit Sharma, star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard and Suryakumar Yadav. However, it won't come as a surprise if Mumbai Indians try to get Kishan back at the IPL mega auction this week.

The young wicket-keeper batter has so far played 61 IPL matches and has 1452 runs to his name at an average of over 28 and a strike rate of over 136.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh believes Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will definitely target Team India's star wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh believes Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will definitely target Team India's star wicket-keeper batter Ishan Kishan in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction. An explosive batter who can open the innings and bat in the middle-order as well, Kishan has seen his stakes rise in the last couple of years, owing to his exploits in the IPL and international cricket. Kishan was released by Mumbai Indians ahead of the IPL mega auction this year and is among the top Indian players to watch out for at the two-day event in Bengaluru on Saturday and Sunday. Kishan had played an instrumental role in Mumbai India's title triumph in IPL 2020 where he notched up 516 runs in 14 games. He can provide much-needed versatility in RCB's batting line-up with his ability to strike the ball from the word go. Ahead of the IPL mega auction, Harbhajan has predicted a bidding war for the young keeper-batter, who has listed his base price at Rs 2 crore (INR 20 million). Harbhajan believes RCB, who are also looking for a new captain after Virat Kohli's decision to quit captaincy, can rope in Kishan and groom him in a leadership role in the long term. "Ishan Kishan is someone I am a fan of. On his own capability, on any given day, he can smash 70-80 runs off 30 balls and win the match for his team. He will become a very big player in the time to come. If a player like him goes to any team, he should be given the responsibility of leadership," Harbhajan said in a video on his YouTube channel. "The way he gets older, with responsibilities, he will become even bigger. He already captains Jharkhand. RCB would definitely target Ishan Kishan in the auction. It will be tough because many teams would go after him at the auction," he added. Also Read: IPL 2022 mega auction dates, timings and venue: All you need to know Mumbai Indians had to let go of Kishan as they decided to retain captain Rohit Sharma, star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard and Suryakumar Yadav. However, it won't come as a surprise if Mumbai Indians try to get Kishan back at the IPL mega auction this week. The young wicket-keeper batter has so far played 61 IPL matches and has 1452 runs to his name at an average of over 28 and a strike rate of over 136.

RCB would definitely target Ishan Kishan at IPL mega auction, he will become a big player: Harbhajan Singh

Virat Kohli resigned as the Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captain following the end of the three-time runners-up's campaign in the IPL 2021 edition. Kohli had announced the news at the start of the second and final leg of IPL 14, in the UAE, on September 19.

Back then, the RCB Twitter handle quoted Kohli as saying, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me."

He added, "It has been a great and an inspiring journey, captaining a talented bunch of players in the RCB squad. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the RCB management, coaches, support staff, players, and the entire RCB family, who have been instrumental in the growth of the franchise over the years."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/that-will-be-the-easiest-solution-ajit-agarkar-urges-virat-kohli-to-reconsider-captaining-rcb-in-ipl-2022-451328">That will be the easiest solution: Ajit Agarkar urges Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining RCB in IPL 2022</a>

Ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, set to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh feels Kohli still remains the best man to lead RCB. "Despite having many big names, RCB is a team who is yet to lift the title. AB de Villiers won't play this season and Kohli has stepped down from captaincy... so they need to find a captain now. Among Indians, Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan are the two names who can efficiently lead the team," Harbhajan said while speaking on his YouTube channel.

"Shreyas has already shown his captaincy prowess while leading the Delhi franchise. But I think Kohli will have to don the captaincy hat again. RCB won't get a better leader than him," opined Harbhajan.

"RCB is making a new team and they will search for a good leader. But does Kohli want to take up the role? It will be a big challenge but I won't be surprised if he agrees to be the captain for the next 1-2 years," he added.

Recently, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar had also advised Kohli to reconsider taking up RCB captaincy.&nbsp;

"If Virat Kohli can take over the captaincy and if he is happy to do it and if he has the energy to do it, I think that will be the easiest solution for them," Agarkar told Star Sports show Game Plan ahead of the auction.

"At the end of the day, we have seen RCB over the years they haven't invested enough money in making a proper team of 12, 13 or 14 players with enough depth.&nbsp;It's always been dependent on the top three, not enough middle order players and if you don't have the money, you can't do that again. So, if you break the bank for one player, doesn't matter how good he is - will win you games but will never win you competitions," he further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/throwback-when-hardik-pandya-didnt-draw-a-single-bid-and-went-unsold-at-ipl-2014-auction-451724">Throwback: When Hardik Pandya didn't draw a single bid and went UNSOLD at IPL 2014 auction</a>

Under Kohli, RCB won 64&nbsp;games and lost 69. He led the franchise in 140 games, taking them to the IPL 2016 final where they lost to the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).&nbsp;

For now, RCB have retained Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Md Siraj ahead of the mega auction. They will have to include some famed and marquee players and then choose their next captain, unless Kohli has a change of mind (which seems highly unlikely at this point of time). He has already given up Team India captaincy altogether (resigning from two formats and being sacked as the ODI captain).

Virat Kohli resigned as the Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captain following the end of the three-time runners-up's campaign in the IPL 2021 edition. Kohli had announced the news at the start of the second and final leg of IPL 14, in the UAE, on September 19.

Virat Kohli resigned as the Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) captain following the end of the three-time runners-up's campaign in the IPL 2021 edition. Kohli had announced the news at the start of the second and final leg of IPL 14, in the UAE, on September 19. Back then, the RCB Twitter handle quoted Kohli as saying, "This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me." He added, "It has been a great and an inspiring journey, captaining a talented bunch of players in the RCB squad. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the RCB management, coaches, support staff, players, and the entire RCB family, who have been instrumental in the growth of the franchise over the years." ALSO READ | That will be the easiest solution: Ajit Agarkar urges Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining RCB in IPL 2022 Ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction, set to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh feels Kohli still remains the best man to lead RCB. "Despite having many big names, RCB is a team who is yet to lift the title. AB de Villiers won't play this season and Kohli has stepped down from captaincy... so they need to find a captain now. Among Indians, Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan are the two names who can efficiently lead the team," Harbhajan said while speaking on his YouTube channel. "Shreyas has already shown his captaincy prowess while leading the Delhi franchise. But I think Kohli will have to don the captaincy hat again. RCB won't get a better leader than him," opined Harbhajan. "RCB is making a new team and they will search for a good leader. But does Kohli want to take up the role? It will be a big challenge but I won't be surprised if he agrees to be the captain for the next 1-2 years," he added. Recently, former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar had also advised Kohli to reconsider taking up RCB captaincy. "If Virat Kohli can take over the captaincy and if he is happy to do it and if he has the energy to do it, I think that will be the easiest solution for them," Agarkar told Star Sports show Game Plan ahead of the auction. "At the end of the day, we have seen RCB over the years they haven't invested enough money in making a proper team of 12, 13 or 14 players with enough depth. It's always been dependent on the top three, not enough middle order players and if you don't have the money, you can't do that again. So, if you break the bank for one player, doesn't matter how good he is - will win you games but will never win you competitions," he further added. ALSO READ | Throwback: When Hardik Pandya didn't draw a single bid and went UNSOLD at IPL 2014 auction Under Kohli, RCB won 64 games and lost 69. He led the franchise in 140 games, taking them to the IPL 2016 final where they lost to the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). For now, RCB have retained Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Md Siraj ahead of the mega auction. They will have to include some famed and marquee players and then choose their next captain, unless Kohli has a change of mind (which seems highly unlikely at this point of time). He has already given up Team India captaincy altogether (resigning from two formats and being sacked as the ODI captain).

Virat Kohli should don captaincy hat again: Harbhajan Singh urges Indian star to lead RCB in IPL 2022

Legendary South Africa batter AB de Villiers believes he might not have made it big in cricket if he was born in India and not his own country. One of the best batters of the modern-day era, De Villiers is often referred to as 'Mr. 360' for his ability to play shots across all parts of the ground.

He is one of the most loved overseas cricketers in India and enjoys a staggering fan base in the country. Apart from his heroics in international cricket for South Africa, De Villiers also entertained the fans with his dazzling performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;

An RCB legend, De Villiers is one of the best batters to have graced the IPL and produced several match-winning performances for his team. He has received immense love from India and Indian fans. De Villiers recently opened on his love for India while speaking on the RCB podcast and said it would have been interesting to grow up in the country.

De Villiers, an accomplished cricketer and one of the greats of the game, also went on to claim that he might have found it difficult to make the cut in the Indian team due to the sheer amount of talent and the intense competition for spots in the Indian cricket team. De Villiers said only special players manage to play for a team like India.

"I have had the privilege of experiencing IPL Cricket, the Indian crowd, and the Indian way of doing things for the last 15 years. Obviously growing up in India would have been interesting. Maybe I would have never played for India, who knows. It is tough to make it to the Indian team; you have to be a special player," De Villiers said on the RCB podcast.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-thought-about-it-virat-kohli-reveals-he-has-been-approached-by-ipl-franchises-in-past-to-leave-rcb-451428">&nbsp;'I have thought about it': Kohli reveals he has been approached by IPL franchises in past to leave RCB</a>

De Villiers, who announced his retirement from all forms of cricket after the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year,&nbsp;played&nbsp;114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is in an illustrious international career, amassing 8765, 9517 and 1672 runs in the three formats respectively.&nbsp;He is the sixth-highest run-getter in IPL history with 5162 runs from 184 matches.

De Villiers also opened up on his journey with RCB in the podcast and said it has been a 'life-changing' experience for him. Despite him not being able to win a single IPL title at the franchise, De Villiers said he looks back to his stint with the team without any regrets.

“RCB to me is family. I mean it has been a life-changing 10-11 years to me. Like any other family, there are ups and downs. There are beautiful, there’re amazing rides, there's a bit of everything. There are good relationships and then there are those which go sour and that is all part of the fun. I look back with no regrets. I think back on my career at RCB as the most amazing years of my life," said De&nbsp;Villiers.

Legendary South Africa batter AB de Villiers believes he might not have made it big in cricket if he was born in India and not his own country. One of the best batters of the modern-day era, De Villiers is often referred to as 'Mr.

Legendary South Africa batter AB de Villiers believes he might not have made it big in cricket if he was born in India and not his own country. One of the best batters of the modern-day era, De Villiers is often referred to as 'Mr. 360' for his ability to play shots across all parts of the ground. He is one of the most loved overseas cricketers in India and enjoys a staggering fan base in the country. Apart from his heroics in international cricket for South Africa, De Villiers also entertained the fans with his dazzling performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). An RCB legend, De Villiers is one of the best batters to have graced the IPL and produced several match-winning performances for his team. He has received immense love from India and Indian fans. De Villiers recently opened on his love for India while speaking on the RCB podcast and said it would have been interesting to grow up in the country. De Villiers, an accomplished cricketer and one of the greats of the game, also went on to claim that he might have found it difficult to make the cut in the Indian team due to the sheer amount of talent and the intense competition for spots in the Indian cricket team. De Villiers said only special players manage to play for a team like India. "I have had the privilege of experiencing IPL Cricket, the Indian crowd, and the Indian way of doing things for the last 15 years. Obviously growing up in India would have been interesting. Maybe I would have never played for India, who knows. It is tough to make it to the Indian team; you have to be a special player," De Villiers said on the RCB podcast. Also Read: 'I have thought about it': Kohli reveals he has been approached by IPL franchises in past to leave RCB De Villiers, who announced his retirement from all forms of cricket after the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year, played 114 Tests, 228 ODIs and 78 T20Is in an illustrious international career, amassing 8765, 9517 and 1672 runs in the three formats respectively. He is the sixth-highest run-getter in IPL history with 5162 runs from 184 matches. De Villiers also opened up on his journey with RCB in the podcast and said it has been a 'life-changing' experience for him. Despite him not being able to win a single IPL title at the franchise, De Villiers said he looks back to his stint with the team without any regrets. “RCB to me is family. I mean it has been a life-changing 10-11 years to me. Like any other family, there are ups and downs. There are beautiful, there’re amazing rides, there's a bit of everything. There are good relationships and then there are those which go sour and that is all part of the fun. I look back with no regrets. I think back on my career at RCB as the most amazing years of my life," said De Villiers.

You have to be special, maybe I would have never played for India if I was an Indian: AB de Villiers

The D-day is upon us. The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru as all the ten franchises are eager to rope in some marquee and promising talents in their respective squads. The mega auction returns after four years, last held in early 2018, and will also see the members of the two new IPL teams -- in the form of Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad (official name not announced yet).

Ahead of the mega auction proceedings, here's a detailed list of mandatory rules laid down by the Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be strictly followed by all the ten IPL franchises:

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/richard-madley-recalls-bidding-war-for-ms-dhoni-during-inaugural-ipl-auction-in-2008-451423">Richard Madley recalls bidding war for MS Dhoni during inaugural IPL auction in 2008</a>

1) The forthcoming IPL 2022 mega auction will be held in a bio-bubble environment. 
2) The officials representing the ten franchises will have to undergo&nbsp;COVID-19 tests and return with negative RT-PCR report on February 9, 10&nbsp; as well as on the 11th.&nbsp; 
3) Unlike the IPL 2018 mega auction, no&nbsp;Right to Match (RTM) option will be&nbsp;available&nbsp;in the upcoming&nbsp;auction proceedings. 
4) The IPL 2022 purse has seen an increase,&nbsp;from Rs 80 crore&nbsp;to 90 crore (INR 800 to 900 million) to accommodate more players. This has been done to rope in more players by focusing primarily&nbsp;on India's&nbsp;domestic circuit. 
5) The Indian board will also keep a tab&nbsp;on those arriving at the team hotel on February 11. They will be closely monitored for COVID-19 symptoms. 
6) The testing will take place&nbsp;between 12 am to 7 am for the smooth conduct of the mega&nbsp;auction. Till their test reports do not come negative,&nbsp;the members will stay put in their respective hotel rooms. 
7) All&nbsp;attendees are also expected to share full details including COVID vaccination results (if any) with the BCCI's&nbsp;medical team. 
8) The participants entering the auction proceedings&nbsp;will have to wear masks in the auditorium at all times.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/drive-auto-with-your-father-rcbs-md-siraj-recalls-criticism-for-bowling-two-beamers-vs-kkr-in-ipl-2019-451404">'Drive auto with your father' - RCB's Md Siraj recalls criticism for bowling two beamers vs KKR in IPL 2019</a>

Where to watch the live streaming, telecast of mega auction?

The ardent IPL fans will be able to watch the live streaming of the IPL 2022 mega&nbsp;auction on Disney+ Hotstar. On the other hand,&nbsp;the mega event will be telecast live on Star Sports Network.

The D-day is upon us. The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru as all the ten franchises are eager to rope in some marquee and promising talents in their respective squads.

The D-day is upon us. The IPL 2022 mega auction is set to take place on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru as all the ten franchises are eager to rope in some marquee and promising talents in their respective squads. The mega auction returns after four years, last held in early 2018, and will also see the members of the two new IPL teams -- in the form of Lucknow Super Giants and Team Ahmedabad (official name not announced yet). Ahead of the mega auction proceedings, here's a detailed list of mandatory rules laid down by the Sourav Ganguly-led Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be strictly followed by all the ten IPL franchises: ALSO READ | Richard Madley recalls bidding war for MS Dhoni during inaugural IPL auction in 2008 1) The forthcoming IPL 2022 mega auction will be held in a bio-bubble environment. 2) The officials representing the ten franchises will have to undergo COVID-19 tests and return with negative RT-PCR report on February 9, 10 as well as on the 11th. 3) Unlike the IPL 2018 mega auction, no Right to Match (RTM) option will be available in the upcoming auction proceedings. 4) The IPL 2022 purse has seen an increase, from Rs 80 crore to 90 crore (INR 800 to 900 million) to accommodate more players. This has been done to rope in more players by focusing primarily on India's domestic circuit. 5) The Indian board will also keep a tab on those arriving at the team hotel on February 11. They will be closely monitored for COVID-19 symptoms. 6) The testing will take place between 12 am to 7 am for the smooth conduct of the mega auction. Till their test reports do not come negative, the members will stay put in their respective hotel rooms. 7) All attendees are also expected to share full details including COVID vaccination results (if any) with the BCCI's medical team. 8) The participants entering the auction proceedings will have to wear masks in the auditorium at all times. ALSO READ | 'Drive auto with your father' - RCB's Md Siraj recalls criticism for bowling two beamers vs KKR in IPL 2019 Where to watch the live streaming, telecast of mega auction? The ardent IPL fans will be able to watch the live streaming of the IPL 2022 mega auction on Disney+ Hotstar. On the other hand, the mega event will be telecast live on Star Sports Network.

IPL 2022: Mandatory rules laid down by BCCI for all 10 franchises at mega auction

Virat Kohli has been one of the best players in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the years. The run machine is currently the all-time leading run-getter of the league and was the first batter to reach the milestone of 6,000 runs in the history of the tournament. While Kohli has been incredibly successful with the bat, he has also been extremely loyal to his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Kohli has been part of the RCB team since the inception of IPL in 2008 and has been with the franchise throughout his IPL career so far. He has not played for any other team in the tournament and has often expressed his desire to spend his entire IPL career with the side.

While speaking on the RCB podcast recently, Kohli revealed he has been approached by some IPL teams in the past but decided not to leave RCB. Kohli said he said he was requested by the teams to come in the auction somehow and has thought about the same but eventually decided to stay at RCB.

"I've been approached a few times as well -- to come into the auction somehow -- I have thought about it," Kohli said on RCB podcast.

"At the end of the day, a person lives a certain number of years, and then you die and life moves on. There have been many great players who have won trophies and things like that but no one addresses you like that. If you are a good person, people like you and if you are a bad guy, they stay away from you. Eventually, that's what life is all about," Kohli added.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ms-dhoni-to-virat-kohli-a-look-at-first-ipl-salaries-of-superstar-cricketers-450783">MS Dhoni to Virat Kohli: A look at first IPL salaries of superstar cricketers</a>

Kohli was picked up by RCB at the IPL auction in 2008 right after he led India to a memorable triumph at the 2008 U-19 World Cup. He was yet to make his debut for the senior Indian team in international cricket back then. Kohli went on to become a superstar at RCB and is currently regarded among the best batters of all time.

He has been incredibly consistent with the bat both at the international level and in the IPL and continues to pile on runs at ease across all formats of the game. Kohli led RCB from 2013 to 2021 before announcing last year that he is stepping down as the team's captain.&nbsp;Kohli is no more the skipper but will continue to be a leader at RCB going forward.

Virat Kohli has been one of the best players in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the years. The run machine is currently the all-time leading run-getter of the league and was the first batter to reach the milestone of 6,000 runs in the history of the tournament.

Virat Kohli has been one of the best players in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over the years. The run machine is currently the all-time leading run-getter of the league and was the first batter to reach the milestone of 6,000 runs in the history of the tournament. While Kohli has been incredibly successful with the bat, he has also been extremely loyal to his franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Kohli has been part of the RCB team since the inception of IPL in 2008 and has been with the franchise throughout his IPL career so far. He has not played for any other team in the tournament and has often expressed his desire to spend his entire IPL career with the side. While speaking on the RCB podcast recently, Kohli revealed he has been approached by some IPL teams in the past but decided not to leave RCB. Kohli said he said he was requested by the teams to come in the auction somehow and has thought about the same but eventually decided to stay at RCB. "I've been approached a few times as well -- to come into the auction somehow -- I have thought about it," Kohli said on RCB podcast. "At the end of the day, a person lives a certain number of years, and then you die and life moves on. There have been many great players who have won trophies and things like that but no one addresses you like that. If you are a good person, people like you and if you are a bad guy, they stay away from you. Eventually, that's what life is all about," Kohli added. Also Read: MS Dhoni to Virat Kohli: A look at first IPL salaries of superstar cricketers Kohli was picked up by RCB at the IPL auction in 2008 right after he led India to a memorable triumph at the 2008 U-19 World Cup. He was yet to make his debut for the senior Indian team in international cricket back then. Kohli went on to become a superstar at RCB and is currently regarded among the best batters of all time. He has been incredibly consistent with the bat both at the international level and in the IPL and continues to pile on runs at ease across all formats of the game. Kohli led RCB from 2013 to 2021 before announcing last year that he is stepping down as the team's captain. Kohli is no more the skipper but will continue to be a leader at RCB going forward.

'I have thought about it': Virat Kohli reveals he has been approached by IPL franchises in past to leave RCB

Former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar has urged Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Ahead of the mega auction, to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, the ex-pacer Agarkar feels Kohli remains RCB's best bet to captain the three-time runners-up.

Prior to the mega auction, RCB retained the likes of former skipper Kohli INR 150 million, Glenn Maxwell (INR 110 million) and Md Siraj (for INR 70 million). With Kohli having resigned from the captaincy post after IPL 2021, the Bengaluru-based franchise will have to shop for a captain as well during the auction proceedings (which will likely be a costly buy). However, Agarkar feels if Kohli can reconsider his decision and reclaim the captaincy post, it will be the easiest solution for the franchise.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-mega-auction-not-rcb-mi-dinesh-karthik-reveals-which-franchise-he-will-feel-great-to-play-for-451298">IPL 2022 mega auction: Not RCB, MI! Dinesh Karthik reveals which franchise he will feel 'great to play for'</a>

"If Virat Kohli can take over the captaincy and if he is happy to do it and if he has the energy to do it, I think that will be the easiest solution for them," Agarkar told Star Sports show Game Plan ahead of the auction.

"At the end of the day, we have seen RCB over the years they haven't invested enough money in making a proper team of 12, 13 or 14 players with enough depth.&nbsp;It's always been dependent on the top three, not enough middle order players and if you don't have the money, you can't do that again. So, if you break the bank for one player, doesn't matter how good he is - will win you games but will never win you competitions," he further added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ms-dhoni-sachin-tendulkar-make-the-cut-in-venkatesh-prasads-all-time-indian-odi-xi-451324">Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar make the cut in Venkatesh Prasad's all-time Indian ODI XI</a>

Under Kohli, RCB won 64 games in 140 matches, losing as many as 69 fixtures. The 33-year-old captained the franchise from 2011-2021 (becoming the full-time skipper since 2013) but couldn't lead them to the coveted title. In 2016, Kohli-led RCB played the season-finale where they lost to David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderbad (SRH).

Former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar has urged Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition.

Former Indian fast-bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar has urged Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition. Ahead of the mega auction, to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, the ex-pacer Agarkar feels Kohli remains RCB's best bet to captain the three-time runners-up. Prior to the mega auction, RCB retained the likes of former skipper Kohli INR 150 million, Glenn Maxwell (INR 110 million) and Md Siraj (for INR 70 million). With Kohli having resigned from the captaincy post after IPL 2021, the Bengaluru-based franchise will have to shop for a captain as well during the auction proceedings (which will likely be a costly buy). However, Agarkar feels if Kohli can reconsider his decision and reclaim the captaincy post, it will be the easiest solution for the franchise. ALSO READ | IPL 2022 mega auction: Not RCB, MI! Dinesh Karthik reveals which franchise he will feel 'great to play for' "If Virat Kohli can take over the captaincy and if he is happy to do it and if he has the energy to do it, I think that will be the easiest solution for them," Agarkar told Star Sports show Game Plan ahead of the auction. "At the end of the day, we have seen RCB over the years they haven't invested enough money in making a proper team of 12, 13 or 14 players with enough depth. It's always been dependent on the top three, not enough middle order players and if you don't have the money, you can't do that again. So, if you break the bank for one player, doesn't matter how good he is - will win you games but will never win you competitions," he further added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar make the cut in Venkatesh Prasad's all-time Indian ODI XI Under Kohli, RCB won 64 games in 140 matches, losing as many as 69 fixtures. The 33-year-old captained the franchise from 2011-2021 (becoming the full-time skipper since 2013) but couldn't lead them to the coveted title. In 2016, Kohli-led RCB played the season-finale where they lost to David Warner's Sunrisers Hyderbad (SRH).

That will be the easiest solution: Ajit Agarkar urges Virat Kohli to reconsider captaining RCB in IPL 2022

Dinesh Karthik's international career has been a topsy-turvy ride. While he has never been a regular in Team India setup for a long period, Karthik has always found ways to keep reinventing himself and stage a comeback in the national setup at regular intervals.

With the 2022 Men's T20 World Cup to be held later this year, the 36-year-old Karthik will be eager to make a strong claim for a return to the T20I side with consistent performances in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, to be held in India. Karthik is set to be under the hammer in the upcoming IPL 2022 mega auction, to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, after the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) didn't retain&nbsp;him last year.

Karthik, with 4,046 runs in 213 matches and 147 dismissals behind the stumps (second-most overall) in IPL, will once again be in demand among the franchises in the auction proceedings. Ahead of the auction, he revealed which franchise will he feel great to be a part of.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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"It's very hard for me to answer this question because it will be a very cliched answer. I'll try and do everything that I can, not only to do well for the franchisee I play for but for myself also," Karthik said to&nbsp;PTI.&nbsp;

"Look, it's great if I can play for CSK. I'm from Chennai. But at the end of the day, what's important for me is whichever team that I get to play in, it will be an absolute honour&nbsp;because as I said, all this practice that I've been doing these days is to try and do well in a tournament like the IPL,"&nbsp;the Tamil Nadu wicket-keeper further added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/remember-ms-dhoni-saying-very-clearly-dinesh-karthik-reacts-to-virat-kohlis-captaincy-saga-449603">'Remember MS Dhoni saying very clearly...' Dinesh Karthik reacts to Virat Kohli's captaincy saga</a>

Over the years, Karthik has represented the likes of&nbsp;Delhi Capitals (DC), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Mumbai Indians (MI), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Gujarat Lions (GL), and the KKR franchise. He won the IPL with MI in 2013. While he has never represented his home franchise, it will be interesting to see if the MS Dhoni-led team bid for him in the forthcoming auction.

Karthik has a base price of INR 20 million&nbsp;(Rs 2 crore) in the mega auction.

Dinesh Karthik's international career has been a topsy-turvy ride. While he has never been a regular in Team India setup for a long period, Karthik has always found ways to keep reinventing himself and stage a comeback in the national setup at regular intervals.

Dinesh Karthik's international career has been a topsy-turvy ride. While he has never been a regular in Team India setup for a long period, Karthik has always found ways to keep reinventing himself and stage a comeback in the national setup at regular intervals. With the 2022 Men's T20 World Cup to be held later this year, the 36-year-old Karthik will be eager to make a strong claim for a return to the T20I side with consistent performances in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition, to be held in India. Karthik is set to be under the hammer in the upcoming IPL 2022 mega auction, to be held on February 12 and 13 in Bengaluru, after the two-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) didn't retain him last year. Karthik, with 4,046 runs in 213 matches and 147 dismissals behind the stumps (second-most overall) in IPL, will once again be in demand among the franchises in the auction proceedings. Ahead of the auction, he revealed which franchise will he feel great to be a part of. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni to Virat Kohli: A look at first IPL salaries of superstar cricketers "It's very hard for me to answer this question because it will be a very cliched answer. I'll try and do everything that I can, not only to do well for the franchisee I play for but for myself also," Karthik said to PTI. "Look, it's great if I can play for CSK. I'm from Chennai. But at the end of the day, what's important for me is whichever team that I get to play in, it will be an absolute honour because as I said, all this practice that I've been doing these days is to try and do well in a tournament like the IPL," the Tamil Nadu wicket-keeper further added. ALSO READ | 'Remember MS Dhoni saying very clearly...' Dinesh Karthik reacts to Virat Kohli's captaincy saga Over the years, Karthik has represented the likes of Delhi Capitals (DC), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Mumbai Indians (MI), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Gujarat Lions (GL), and the KKR franchise. He won the IPL with MI in 2013. While he has never represented his home franchise, it will be interesting to see if the MS Dhoni-led team bid for him in the forthcoming auction. Karthik has a base price of INR 20 million (Rs 2 crore) in the mega auction.

IPL 2022 mega auction: Not RCB, MI! Dinesh Karthik reveals which franchise he will feel 'great to play for'

Virat Kohli's captaincy stint with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) came to an after the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year. Kohli had taken over as the full-time skipper of RCB in 2013 and led the side in a total of nine seasons but failed to inspire the team to its maiden IPL title triumph.

RCB came close to ending their IPL title drought under Kohli's captaincy in IPL 2016 when they made it to the final of the competition. The Kohli-led side was up against David Warner-led Sunrisers Hyderabad in the summit clash and stood just one step away from the elusive trophy.

However, RCB lost the final by 8 runs and missed out on their maiden trophy. Batting first, SRH posted a strong total of 208 runs on the board and took control of the final. However, RCB got off to a stunning start as Kohli and Chris Gayle posted a 114-run stand for the first wicket with half-centuries apiece.

However, the rest of the batters disappointed as SRH managed to restrict RCB on 200 runs to clinch their maiden IPL title. Kohli revealed, KL Rahul, who was also part of the RCB squad back then, still sends him a screenshot of the final when it comes on TV and says the loss still hurts.

“The final, I feel like it was written, how could the finals be in Bangalore, after we play that kind of a season, and we are playing that kind of a game at 100-0 after 9 overs. To this date, KL takes screenshots of that game when it is broadcasted and says it still hurts," Kohli said speaking about the IPL 2016 final loss on the RCB podcast.

“And it does hurt to an extent. You have to think about that game every now and then. We were not good enough on that day. That is one game where I feel like, it hurts. From all the IPL seasons I’ve been a part of, we had it right in front of us,” he added.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everyone-else-was-getting-a-decent-car-when-virat-kohli-was-left-disappointed-by-rcbs-treatment-450707">&nbsp;'Everyone else was getting a decent car': When Virat Kohli was left disappointed by RCB's treatment</a>

Not winning an IPL title as captain disappoints me: Virat Kohli

Kohli has been with RCB since the inception of IPL in 2008 as he remains the only active player in the league to have played for only one franchise so far in his IPL career. However, the former captain is yet to win his maiden title with the franchise.

After losing the final in 2016, RCB came close to ending their IPL title drought in the last two years as they qualified for playoffs in back-to-back seasons. However, they failed to reach the final on both occasions and had to settle with a finish in the top four. Kohli said it has been disappointing to not win an IPL title as a captain.

“Not winning a title as captain disappoints me, I would say we had opportunities, where we came close. We have to accept the fact that the reason we have not won is because we have not been as courageous, or as clear in our plans as we should have been in those moments. You could say that the odds were stacked against us in terms of expectations, but you have to deal with those expectations,” Kohli said.

&nbsp;

Virat Kohli's captaincy stint with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) came to an after the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year.

Virat Kohli's captaincy stint with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) came to an after the conclusion of IPL 2021 last year. Kohli had taken over as the full-time skipper of RCB in 2013 and led the side in a total of nine seasons but failed to inspire the team to its maiden IPL title triumph. RCB came close to ending their IPL title drought under Kohli's captaincy in IPL 2016 when they made it to the final of the competition. The Kohli-led side was up against David Warner-led Sunrisers Hyderabad in the summit clash and stood just one step away from the elusive trophy. However, RCB lost the final by 8 runs and missed out on their maiden trophy. Batting first, SRH posted a strong total of 208 runs on the board and took control of the final. However, RCB got off to a stunning start as Kohli and Chris Gayle posted a 114-run stand for the first wicket with half-centuries apiece. However, the rest of the batters disappointed as SRH managed to restrict RCB on 200 runs to clinch their maiden IPL title. Kohli revealed, KL Rahul, who was also part of the RCB squad back then, still sends him a screenshot of the final when it comes on TV and says the loss still hurts. “The final, I feel like it was written, how could the finals be in Bangalore, after we play that kind of a season, and we are playing that kind of a game at 100-0 after 9 overs. To this date, KL takes screenshots of that game when it is broadcasted and says it still hurts," Kohli said speaking about the IPL 2016 final loss on the RCB podcast. “And it does hurt to an extent. You have to think about that game every now and then. We were not good enough on that day. That is one game where I feel like, it hurts. From all the IPL seasons I’ve been a part of, we had it right in front of us,” he added. Also Read: 'Everyone else was getting a decent car': When Virat Kohli was left disappointed by RCB's treatment Not winning an IPL title as captain disappoints me: Virat Kohli Kohli has been with RCB since the inception of IPL in 2008 as he remains the only active player in the league to have played for only one franchise so far in his IPL career. However, the former captain is yet to win his maiden title with the franchise. After losing the final in 2016, RCB came close to ending their IPL title drought in the last two years as they qualified for playoffs in back-to-back seasons. However, they failed to reach the final on both occasions and had to settle with a finish in the top four. Kohli said it has been disappointing to not win an IPL title as a captain. “Not winning a title as captain disappoints me, I would say we had opportunities, where we came close. We have to accept the fact that the reason we have not won is because we have not been as courageous, or as clear in our plans as we should have been in those moments. You could say that the odds were stacked against us in terms of expectations, but you have to deal with those expectations,” Kohli said.

KL Rahul takes screenshots of IPL 2016 final when it is broadcasted and says it still hurts: Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli recently shared an interesting anecdote from his early days with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Kohli was roped in by RCB ahead of the inaugural edition of the IPL in 2008. Kohli had led India to a memorable triumph at the ICC U-19 World Cup in 2008 before being roped in by RCB in IPL 2008.

Kohli has since become one of the best batters o have graced the competition and is currently the leading run-getter of all time in IPL history. Kohli has also established his credentials as one of the best batters of all time and is among the highest-earning players in the IPL.

However, at the start of his IPL career things were not as good as Kohli had expected them to be. Speaking on the RCB podcast, Kohli revealed how he had a not so great experience after his first season with the franchise. While the other RCB players were getting 'decent' cars to head back to the airport at the end of the 2008 season, Kohli said he was sent to the airport in an 'Omni van' which was not in a great condition.

"After the season, because I was an Under-19 boy, I was sent to the airport in an Omni van. Everyone else was getting a decent car to go, and I was the only one that was left, and they probably would have said just give him anything and just get him to the airport," Kohli said on the podcast.

The former RCB captain revealed it was not a good car and he didn't like being asked to travel in the van. Kohli said it is not a good memory for him as he shared an interesting anecdote.

"And that was not a good car, I'm sorry to say, but I would have loved at least a decent car which was not broken, something through which I could see the road, this one was on its last leg. So, not a good memory," Kohli added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-unhappy-with-anil-kumble-for-not-standing-up-for-players-claims-former-bcci-official-450649">Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official</a>

Kohli has come a long way since then and is currently one of the biggest stars in world cricket. He led RCB from the 2013 season to the 2021 season last year before stepping down from captaincy. He had announced his resignation from captainc y last year after leading RCB to the playoffs of IPL 2021.

Kohli has been with RCB right from the inception of the IPL in 2008 but is yet to win his maiden IPL title with the franchise.

Virat Kohli recently shared an interesting anecdote from his early days with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Kohli was roped in by RCB ahead of the inaugural edition of the IPL in 2008.

Virat Kohli recently shared an interesting anecdote from his early days with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Kohli was roped in by RCB ahead of the inaugural edition of the IPL in 2008. Kohli had led India to a memorable triumph at the ICC U-19 World Cup in 2008 before being roped in by RCB in IPL 2008. Kohli has since become one of the best batters o have graced the competition and is currently the leading run-getter of all time in IPL history. Kohli has also established his credentials as one of the best batters of all time and is among the highest-earning players in the IPL. However, at the start of his IPL career things were not as good as Kohli had expected them to be. Speaking on the RCB podcast, Kohli revealed how he had a not so great experience after his first season with the franchise. While the other RCB players were getting 'decent' cars to head back to the airport at the end of the 2008 season, Kohli said he was sent to the airport in an 'Omni van' which was not in a great condition. "After the season, because I was an Under-19 boy, I was sent to the airport in an Omni van. Everyone else was getting a decent car to go, and I was the only one that was left, and they probably would have said just give him anything and just get him to the airport," Kohli said on the podcast. The former RCB captain revealed it was not a good car and he didn't like being asked to travel in the van. Kohli said it is not a good memory for him as he shared an interesting anecdote. "And that was not a good car, I'm sorry to say, but I would have loved at least a decent car which was not broken, something through which I could see the road, this one was on its last leg. So, not a good memory," Kohli added. Also Read: Virat Kohli was unhappy with Anil Kumble for 'not standing up for players', claims former BCCI official Kohli has come a long way since then and is currently one of the biggest stars in world cricket. He led RCB from the 2013 season to the 2021 season last year before stepping down from captaincy. He had announced his resignation from captainc y last year after leading RCB to the playoffs of IPL 2021. Kohli has been with RCB right from the inception of the IPL in 2008 but is yet to win his maiden IPL title with the franchise.

'Everyone else was getting a decent car': When Virat Kohli was left disappointed by RCB's treatment

The mega auction for the IPL 2022 edition is just a few days away. All eyes are on the ten teams and how they will form their respective sides heading into the 15th edition. While the auction strategies are being laid down by all the ten teams, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has confirmed that the IPL 2022 season will take place in India itself.

Ahead of the mega auction, to be held in Bengaluru in mid-February, BCCI President Ganguly has stated that Maharastra will be conducting the league stage of the 15th edition whereas no final call has been made regarding the playoffs' venues.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-has-kept-whopping-amount-aside-for-shreyas-iyer-in-ipl-2022-mega-auction-reveals-aakash-chopra-449807">RCB has kept whopping amount aside for Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2022 mega auction, reveals Aakash Chopra</a>

"It will be held in India this year, until and unless COVID-19 hits the roof. As far as venues are concerned, we are looking at hosting the matches in Maharashtra – Mumbai, and Pune. We will take a call on the venues for the knockout stages later," Ganguly has told Sportstar.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-opens-up-on-delhi-franchises-decision-to-choose-pradeep-sangwan-over-him-in-maiden-ipl-auction-449482">Kohli opens up on Delhi franchise's decision to choose Pradeep Sangwan over him in maiden IPL auction</a>

In the last two years, i.e. the Covid-era, BCCI have had their fair share of struggles in hosting the cash-rich league smoothly. After more a five-month delay, the IPL 2020 edition took place in the UAE amid the bio-bubble restrictions. While the IPL 2021 season started in India, only the first half of the marquee event (i.e. 29 games) was held in the country before the second wave of the Covid-19 virus led to its indefinite postponement. Finally, the season was completed with the remainder of the games being held in the Middle East.&nbsp;BCCI will, thus, have their task cut-out to host the 15th season smoothly, without any fuss.

At present, Covid crisis has hit Team India ahead of their white-ball series, at home, versus West Indies. The ODIs get underway on February 6.

The mega auction for the IPL 2022 edition is just a few days away. All eyes are on the ten teams and how they will form their respective sides heading into the 15th edition.

The mega auction for the IPL 2022 edition is just a few days away. All eyes are on the ten teams and how they will form their respective sides heading into the 15th edition. While the auction strategies are being laid down by all the ten teams, BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly has confirmed that the IPL 2022 season will take place in India itself. Ahead of the mega auction, to be held in Bengaluru in mid-February, BCCI President Ganguly has stated that Maharastra will be conducting the league stage of the 15th edition whereas no final call has been made regarding the playoffs' venues. ALSO READ | RCB has kept whopping amount aside for Shreyas Iyer in IPL 2022 mega auction, reveals Aakash Chopra "It will be held in India this year, until and unless COVID-19 hits the roof. As far as venues are concerned, we are looking at hosting the matches in Maharashtra – Mumbai, and Pune. We will take a call on the venues for the knockout stages later," Ganguly has told Sportstar. ALSO READ | Kohli opens up on Delhi franchise's decision to choose Pradeep Sangwan over him in maiden IPL auction In the last two years, i.e. the Covid-era, BCCI have had their fair share of struggles in hosting the cash-rich league smoothly. After more a five-month delay, the IPL 2020 edition took place in the UAE amid the bio-bubble restrictions. While the IPL 2021 season started in India, only the first half of the marquee event (i.e. 29 games) was held in the country before the second wave of the Covid-19 virus led to its indefinite postponement. Finally, the season was completed with the remainder of the games being held in the Middle East. BCCI will, thus, have their task cut-out to host the 15th season smoothly, without any fuss. At present, Covid crisis has hit Team India ahead of their white-ball series, at home, versus West Indies. The ODIs get underway on February 6.

IPL 2022: Maharashtra to host league stage, call on playoffs' venues not taken, says Sourav Ganguly

After the end of IPL 2021, AB de Villiers dropped a bomb by announcing his retirement from all forms of the game. De Villiers ended by being the sixth-highest run-getter, amassing&nbsp;5,162 runs in 184 matches at a whopping strike-rate of 151.68.

Being a big name in IPL, De Villiers signed off as one of the greatest of all-time&nbsp;in the tournament history. He represented Delhi Daredevils (DD) -- currently known as Delhi Capitals (DC) -- before being a mainstay in Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp since IPL 2011. Apart from the runs and fielding heroics, which led RCB to the playoffs on five occasions, the former South African captain established a special bond with the Indian fans (especially with the Bengaluru fans). During a recent&nbsp;interaction, ABD revealed how he has been offered apartments to move to India.

To this, de&nbsp;Villiers said in the RCB podcast, "I hope it's a big apartment because I have three kids now and we need a lot of room! My relationship with RCB goes a lot deeper than just playing cricket for them. And I don't think it would have been the same for any other franchise and that's what I hold dearest to my heart - it's the fans and the city itself."

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The RCB Podcast powered by Kotak Mahindra Bank: Trailer 
 
10 episodes, plenty of interesting and never heard before stories about the tournament that made them the superstars they are! 
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— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1488353914722291713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-an-internal-battle-gautam-gambhir-doesnt-mince-his-words-on-virat-kohli-vs-bcci-row-449610">It was an internal battle: Gautam Gambhir doesn't mince his words on Virat Kohli vs BCCI row</a>

He added, "I have always connected with the places I go to. It's a bit weird but I remember smells and visual stuff I see. The minute I get into Bangalore there's a certain freshness in the air, a certain something that I sort of connect with that feels familiar.

"And I would never pick that up in any (other city). I have thought about it long and hard - Mumbai, Delhi, if you put me in any other team I never would have had that kind of connection so that's one thing that I find special while playing for RCB."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/370-indians-220-overseas-stars-up-for-grabs-complete-list-of-590-players-for-ipl-2022-mega-auction-449547">370 Indians, 220 overseas stars up for grabs: Complete list of 590 players for IPL 2022 mega auction</a>

Recently, De Villiers also hinted at taking up coaching role in the near future.&nbsp;"I still believe that I have a role to play in SA cricket and also over there in the IPL with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). I have no idea what will come next but I will take it one day at a time and see. I have been looking after and mentoring some youngsters with potential and ability for the last few years," he had recently told TimesLive.com.za.

Talking about IPL 2022, the mega auction is set to be held in mid-February. Virat Kohli-starrer RCB will look to revamp and build a strong team after retaining the likes of Kohli, Md Siraj and Glenn Maxwell.

After the end of IPL 2021, AB de Villiers dropped a bomb by announcing his retirement from all forms of the game. De Villiers ended by being the sixth-highest run-getter, amassing 5,162 runs in 184 matches at a whopping strike-rate of 151.

After the end of IPL 2021, AB de Villiers dropped a bomb by announcing his retirement from all forms of the game. De Villiers ended by being the sixth-highest run-getter, amassing 5,162 runs in 184 matches at a whopping strike-rate of 151.68. Being a big name in IPL, De Villiers signed off as one of the greatest of all-time in the tournament history. He represented Delhi Daredevils (DD) -- currently known as Delhi Capitals (DC) -- before being a mainstay in Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp since IPL 2011. Apart from the runs and fielding heroics, which led RCB to the playoffs on five occasions, the former South African captain established a special bond with the Indian fans (especially with the Bengaluru fans). During a recent interaction, ABD revealed how he has been offered apartments to move to India. To this, de Villiers said in the RCB podcast, "I hope it's a big apartment because I have three kids now and we need a lot of room! My relationship with RCB goes a lot deeper than just playing cricket for them. And I don't think it would have been the same for any other franchise and that's what I hold dearest to my heart - it's the fans and the city itself." The RCB Podcast powered by Kotak Mahindra Bank: Trailer 10 episodes, plenty of interesting and never heard before stories about the tournament that made them the superstars they are! (1/n)#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers #TheRCBPodcast pic.twitter.com/MWPQG3IEwH — Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) February 1, 2022 × ALSO READ | It was an internal battle: Gautam Gambhir doesn't mince his words on Virat Kohli vs BCCI row He added, "I have always connected with the places I go to. It's a bit weird but I remember smells and visual stuff I see. The minute I get into Bangalore there's a certain freshness in the air, a certain something that I sort of connect with that feels familiar. "And I would never pick that up in any (other city). I have thought about it long and hard - Mumbai, Delhi, if you put me in any other team I never would have had that kind of connection so that's one thing that I find special while playing for RCB." ALSO READ | 370 Indians, 220 overseas stars up for grabs: Complete list of 590 players for IPL 2022 mega auction Recently, De Villiers also hinted at taking up coaching role in the near future. "I still believe that I have a role to play in SA cricket and also over there in the IPL with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). I have no idea what will come next but I will take it one day at a time and see. I have been looking after and mentoring some youngsters with potential and ability for the last few years," he had recently told TimesLive.com.za. Talking about IPL 2022, the mega auction is set to be held in mid-February. Virat Kohli-starrer RCB will look to revamp and build a strong team after retaining the likes of Kohli, Md Siraj and Glenn Maxwell.

RCB legend AB de Villers gives cheeky response to people offering him apartments to live in India

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