Archive · 10 Nov 2025
Former RCB Batter Mohammed Kaif Believes Ownership Change Won't Disrupt Winning Formula
The company that owns the Royal Challengers Bengaluru cricket teams, including the men's IPL team and the women's WPL team, is planning to sell them.
This news came out recently.
A former player, Mohammed Kaif, thinks that even if new owners take over, the team already has a good plan for how to win games.
He pointed out that they now spend money on good bowlers, not just batters.
They also have a clear idea of who bats where, with a star player like Virat Kohli opening and another player finishing the games.
This plan worked well for them to win their first championship.
The sale process is expected to take a while, possibly until early 2026.
Diageo, through its subsidiary USL, has begun the process of selling the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) IPL and WPL teams.
The sale process is expected to be finalized by March 31, 2026.
Former RCB player Mohammed Kaif believes a change in ownership will not disrupt the team's successful strategy.
Kaif highlighted the team's improved auction performance, focus on bowlers, and clear batting order as key to their recent title win.
Any new owner will have to work with a squad finalized by the current owners, Diageo, given upcoming retention deadlines and auctions.
- Who
- Former RCB batter Mohammed Kaif and Diageo/USL
- What
- Diageo initiated the process to sell the Royal Challengers Bengaluru IPL and WPL teams; Mohammed Kaif commented that a change in ownership is unlikely to affect the team's winning strategy.
- When
- The process was revealed last Wednesday, with potential finalization by March 31, 2026. IPL retention finalization is by November 15.
- Where
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
- Why
- USL is undertaking a comprehensive strategic review of its investment in the subsidiary holding the RCB teams.
- Company Reviewing Ownership
- USL (United Spirits Limited), a subsidiary of Diageo
- Teams Involved
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) IPL team and WPL team
- Current Status
- Process to sell has been initiated
- Potential Sale Finalization
- March 31, 2026
- Key Player Strategy Mentioned
- Virat Kohli batting at the top, Tim David as finisher
- Recent Success
- Maiden title triumph (implied IPL 2025)