Tim David played a finisher for RCB in IPL 2025 hitting 187 runs at strike rate of 154.14.
Former India cricketer R Ashwin revealed that despite his advice to multiple IPL franchises, they didn’t want to bid on Australian big-hitter Tim David in the IPL 2025 auction. Ashwin stated that the franchises he asked to pick David declined, saying that David’s game has fallen apart.
David, who was released by the Mumbai Indians before the auction, attracted little attention when his name was called, allowing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to acquire him for a mere Rs 3 crore.
David established himself in Bengaluru's all-star batting lineup by playing the finisher position and delivering several game-winning innings. With 187 runs in nine games at an incredible strike rate of 185.14, he was the sixth-highest run scorer for the team.
“I shouldn’t say this, but I told a couple of decision makers and asked them to pick Tim David. They were like, ‘No, his game has fallen apart.’ I’ll repeat, the future of T20s—six-foot-plus players, long levers, and strong players—is going to rule the roost," Ashwin said while speaking on his YouTube channel.
Ashwin further picked Cameron Green and Mitchell Owen to get the maximum interest in the upcoming IPL 2026 auction. He also felt that Cameron Green could be the most expensive player in the upcoming auction.
“If there is no change in the wide line, they are going to kill it. In the next auctions, Cam Green is going to go for a bomb. People have their eyes on Mitch Owen, but I would say wait a bit and see. Owen is still new to the scene. In a tournament like the IPL, to come directly and create an impact is a challenge, but nevertheless, I will wait a bit on it. Cam Green and Tim David have been in great form," Ashwin added.
Meanwhile, David has carried over his brilliant form to the Australian team, as he has made 265 runs in his last five T20Is, including an unbeaten ton against the West Indies.
“A player RCB picked up at base price (INR 3 crore) has taken his game to the next level. It’s good to see Australia sending him up the order. A real steal for RCB," Ashwin said.