RCB’s Biggest Fraud Buys: Overpaid, Overhyped, Under Delivered

When Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) steps into the IPL auction, fans hold their breath, hoping for game-changing stars. Yet, history shows that not every big buy turns into a hero; some crash and burn, leaving the team and its supporters scratching their heads.

From overpaid veterans to hyped youngsters who fizzled out, RCB’s roster boasts a gallery of flops that drained the purse without delivering the goods. Let’s dive into the tales of these misadventures, exploring the stats and stories behind the franchise’s most regrettable investments over the years.

Top Fraud Player and Worst Buy of RCB

1. Kevin Pietersen (IPL 2009)

When Kevin Pietersen joined Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2009, fans buzzed with excitement. Touted as one of the world’s top batsmen, he pocketed Rs 9.8 crore; more than MS Dhoni; and took the captain’s role. Yet, he flopped hard, scoring under 100 runs in 6 matches with shaky leadership. In 2010, his batting improved slightly, but he played just 7 games, leaving RCB disappointed.

2. Saurabh Tiwary (2011)

RCB spent Rs 7.36 crore on Saurabh Tiwary in 2011. He scored 187 runs in 14 matches (average 23.37, strike rate 108.72), but his inconsistent knocks failed to match his 2010 promise.

3. Ashok Dinda (IPL 2014)

Ashok Dinda joined RCB for Rs 1.5 crore in 2014, but his performance fizzled. In 9 matches, he took 5 wickets, grabbing 1 each in 5 games and ducking 4 wicketless outings. RCB sidelined him for 5 matches, rendering the signing useless.

4. Daren Sammy (IPL 2015)

Daren Sammy joined RCB for Rs 2.8 crore in 2015, playing 6 matches. He scored 66 runs in 5 innings (average 13.20, strike rate 122.22, highest 27) and took 2 wickets in 10 overs, offering little impact.

5. Dinesh Karthik (IPL 2015)

Dinesh Karthik landed at RCB for Rs 10.5 crore in 2015, but he scored just 141 runs in 12 innings (average 12, strike rate 120). His lackluster performance left fans and the team wanting more.

6. Stuart Binny (IPL 2016)

RCB invested Rs 2 crore in Stuart Binny in 2016, expecting all-round flair. He scored a measly 63 runs in 6 innings (average 21) and snagged only 1 wicket in 11 bowling stints. The deal proved a dud for the franchise.

7. Tymal Mills (IPL 2017)

Tymal Mills dazzled RCB with his pace, earning a Rs 12 crore contract in 2017. Despite a modest 3-wicket T20I series, his potential swayed the team. Injuries and form issues limited him to 5 matches and 5 wickets, making the hefty buy a flop.

8. Colin de Grandhomme (IPL 2018)

RCB acquired Colin de Grandhomme for Rs 2.2 crore in 2018. In 2018, he scored 131 runs in 7 innings (strike rate 126.21) and took 4 wickets in 20 overs (economy 9.95). In 2019, his role waned, proving costly for a finisher.

9. Quinton de Kock (IPL 2018)

RCB signed Quinton de Kock for Rs 2.8 crore in 2018 as an opener. He scored 201 runs in 8 matches (strike rate 124.07), but his moderate output led to his trade to Mumbai Indians, where he excelled (503 runs in 2019).

10. Brendon McCullum (IPL 2018)

Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum arrived at RCB for Rs 3.60 crore in 2018, opening the innings with high hopes. However, he scored just 127 runs in 6 innings at an average of 21.16, failing to deliver big hits. RCB benched him for the season, marking another misstep.

11. Shimron Hetmyer (IPL 2019)

RCB paid Rs 4.2 crore for Shimron Hetmyer in 2019, banking on his big-shot ability. He scored 90 runs in 5 matches (average 18, strike rate 123, highest 75) but failed to convert starts, leading to his drop from the XI.

12. Aaron Finch (IPL 2020)

RCB splashed Rs 4.40 crore on Aaron Finch during the 2020 auction, banking on his T20 prowess. He managed 268 runs in 12 innings, averaging 22.33, with one fifty but no standout knocks. His strike rate hovered at 111+, far too slow for RCB’s needs, making him a pricey letdown.

13. Shivam Dube (IPL 2020)

RCB nabbed Shivam Dube for Rs 5 crore in 2019, hoping for power-hitting. He scored 40 runs in 4 matches with no wickets in 2019, then added 129 runs in 11 matches (average 18, strike rate 122) and 6 wickets in 2020. His inconsistent output frustrated RCB.

14. Daniel Christian (IPL 2021)

RCB spent Rs 4.8 crore on Daniel Christian in 2021, expecting versatility. He scored 14 runs in 9 matches and took 4 wickets, delivering a poor return on investment.

15. Kyle Jamieson (IPL 2021)

New Zealand’s Kyle Jamieson cost RCB Rs 15 crore in 2021, the second-highest auction price. He took 9 wickets in 9 matches with a 9.61 economy, but his performance fell short of the massive price tag.

16. Alzarri Joseph (IPL 2024)

RCB paid Rs 11.50 crore for Alzarri Joseph in 2024, but he struggled, taking 1 wicket in 3 matches with a high run rate. The team was disappointed by his early season form.

                                               

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