Virat Kohli's RCB Should Target Manish Pandey During IPL 2025 Mega Auction. Here's WHY

Veteran Indian Premier League star Manish Pandey has expressed his desire to join Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming season. His statement comes at a very crucial juncture - ahead of the Mega Auction. Hailing from Bengaluru, the 34-year-old wants to play for his home franchise. Manish, who is currently with Kolkata Knight Riders, is an important player because of the experience he brings to the table of playing the cash-rich league. Manish is one of the few players who has played the IPL since it's inception way back in 2008. He was part of the Mumbai Indians franchise in 2008. In the following year, he moved to now-defunct Deccan Chargers. He was an instant star there as he became the first Indian to score a century in the league as well. He then played for Pune Warriors for a year before being lapped up by Kolkata Knight Riders. At KKR, he helped the side clinch the title in 2014. In 2017, he was part of Sunrisers Hyderabad. And then has also played for Lucknow Super Giants and Delhi Capitals before joining KKR again. 

Speaking to TV9, he explained:

"As a hometown boy, I would love to be back playing for RCB. Not just me, all the youngsters from Karnataka would love to play for RCB one day".  

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Why Manish Pandey…

Experience is Irreplaceable: With 171 IPL games to his name, Manish Pandey is one of the most experienced cricketers in the history of the league. Also, experience is irreplaceable. If RCB needs some solidity in the middle-overs, Manish is someone RCB may eye. 

Knowhow of Conditions: Manish hails from Bengaluru, so the iconic Chinnaswamy is where he has played most of his cricket. His knowhow of the pitch and conditions could benefit RCB in a big way. Manish is someone RCB would have their eyes on during the auction. 

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Eyes would be on Manish at the auction to see if RCB is interested in him or not.