Jitesh for INR 11 crore is a good buy, Salt for INR 11.5 crore is a steal: Mohammad Kaif

Royal Challengers Bengaluru had a roller coaster session across the two days of the IPL (Indian Premier League) 2025 mega auction. The side came into the mega event with just three retentions in Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Yash Dayal. 

Having to rebuild almost all of their squad, the side roped in two explosive batters in Phil Salt and Jitesh Sharma. Bengaluru bought Phil Salt for INR 11.5 crore and roped in Jitesh Sharma for INR 11 crore. The side will have two good batting options with them ahead of the new season. 

Talking about the same, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif came forward and reflected on how good of a buy Jitesh Sharma and Phil Salt could be for the side. 

“Jitesh got 11 crores, which is a good buy. Salt was bought for 11.5 crores, which is a steal. Last year, Salt won the IPL trophy against KKR. Salt made some very important contributions. That's why he got the money. Jitesh plays number 5. Even though he opens, he plays number 5. Dinesh Karthik is not there this time. Lomror is also not there,” Kaif told Star Sports.

“So players who play number 5 and 6, bring Jitesh there. Salt will open. This is a very good buy. Salt's buy is only at 11.5 crores. This means, a player who can play explosively in the powerplay, with Virat Kohli not being the aggressor, Salt's buy is very beneficial for the team,” he added.

Also Check: IPL Auction 2025 Live Updates, Day 2

RCB have to look at their bowling: Kaif

Furthermore, Kaif talked about how, after building a solid batting attack, RCB should look to improve their bowling department. 

“Now, RCB have to look at their bowling. Bengaluru’s pitch is flat. It’s a high-scoring venue. If you don’t have good bowlers, you'll get trapped. Hazlewood has got 12.5 crores, so they are looking to strengthen their bowling attack. But they still have a lot to do in their bowling, this is a necessity when playing in Bengaluru,” Kaif added.