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Parthiv Patel reveals RCB ignored his Jasprit Bumrah recommendation in IPL 2014 Auction

Parthiv Patel has shared an unexpected look back at his time with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, including a revelation about the franchise’s 2014 IPL auction. The former India wicketkeeper-batter disclosed that he had personally recommended signing Jasprit Bumrah during the 2014 mega auction, but RCB reportedly ignored his suggestion entirely.

Bumrah, then an uncapped young fast bowler, was eventually picked by Mumbai Indians for ₹1.20 crore—a decision that would prove pivotal, as he went on to become one of the most dominant bowlers in the tournament and for the Indian national team over the following years. Patel’s recommendation came despite Bumrah having made his IPL debut the prior season with MI for just ₹10 lakh, playing only two matches before his breakout opportunity.

Patel also reflected on his emotional bond with RCB, despite a tumultuous final season in 2020 when he was sidelined from playing a single match. He credited the franchise for their support during a personal crisis in 2019, when his father was in a coma and he continued to balance matches with family commitments.

Though he later criticized RCB publicly after his retirement announcement, Patel admitted the team’s kindness during difficult times left a lasting impression. His insights offer a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the dynamics of player-franchise relationships in the IPL.

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