'Are they building a brand?' - Venkatesh Prasad criticises RCB's lack of focus on local talent development

Venkatesh Prasad, former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach and India pacer has criticized the franchise for its lack of efforts to nurture local talent in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite being one of the most renowned teams, RCB has always relied on Indian and overseas star players, not really focusing on bringing out homegrown players like some of their rivals. 

Over the time, teams like Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have successfully groomed domestic players, making them long-term rewards. Nevertheless, RCB has yet to introduce a similarly effective model. While they have improved a lot on their scouting processes, they have apparently not been able to discover Karnataka-based talents who can make a lasting impact.

The Karnataka Premier League (KPL) was anticipated to be the place from where RCB would recognize and mould local cricketers. While they have signed a few Karnataka players through auctions, none have got the opportunity or a long rope. Prasad has raised concerns on the franchise's priorities, suggesting they are more focused on brand value than winning the IPL. 

"How a team is managed makes all the difference. Other teams are putting faith in local talent, so why isn’t RCB doing the same? Are they building a brand, or are they truly focused on winning the IPL? They need to get the best out of their players, which has not happened so far," Prasad said on Jio Hotstar.

Also Read: Full List of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Squad and Players for IPL 2025  

Presently, RCB’s local players include Devdutt Padikkal and Manoj Bhandage. Padikkal, once RCB’s first-choice opener, was released after the 2021 season but returned after stints with Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Bhandage, part of the squad since 2023, was reacquired in the 2025 mega auction but has yet to make his IPL debut. 

As RCB enters a new era, they have made a bold move by appointing Rajat Patidar as captain, replacing Faf du Plessis whom they let go of. Meanwhile, their IPL 2025 campaign begins against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens on March 22.