Image courtesy: X(ESPN Cricinfo)
For fans of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the elusive dream of lifting the IPL trophy remains a constant topic of discussion. The question of why RCB has never won the IPL haunts every captain, coach, and team director who takes charge. Now, under the leadership of team director Mo Bobat, head coach Andy Flower, mentor Dinesh Karthik, and former captain Virat Kohli, RCB aims to rewrite history.
Bobat, who assumed his role in September 2023, believes that while winning the IPL is the ultimate goal, fostering a bold and aggressive playing culture is the real obsession.
“Winning Is the Goal, Obsession Is How We Play”
Speaking about the unique challenge of leading a team with a massive fanbase but no titles, Bobat said:
“RCB has a big status, yet we haven’t won the competition. It’s a narrative that plays out a lot. I’m excited by the challenge. What I want us to be obsessed with is how we play our cricket, not the pressure of winning.”
This philosophy has guided RCB’s approach to team building, particularly during player retention and the auction process. Bobat and Flower have focused on creating a balanced squad with an emphasis on an experienced Indian core and aggressive intent across all phases of the game.
Key Strategies: Retentions, Auction, and Data-Driven Decisions
Strengthening the Indian Core
RCB retained three key Indian players, an unprecedented move for the franchise. Bobat explained:
“A big proportion of our IPL caps were held by Virat and DK [Dinesh Karthik]. We wanted to even that out with more Indian players who have leadership experience and strengthen our core.”
Smart Spending on Starters
Unlike previous seasons, RCB avoided spending excessively on a single marquee player.
“We focused on spending money on starters and ensuring quality on the field. This meant slightly smaller squads but a better balance between batting and bowling.”
Data and Vision
While data played a role in selections, Bobat emphasized the importance of a clear vision:
“Our vision of how we want to play comes first. Data supports that vision. For example, we focused on metrics like dots bowled in death overs, boundary frequency, and yorker accuracy to shape our squad.”
A Batting Revolution: Aggression Across the Lineup
The hallmark of RCB’s strategy is a batting lineup built on relentless aggression.
“We don’t want to consolidate in the middle overs unless conditions dictate. Last year, players like Will Jacks and Rajat Patidar showcased how aggression can transform games. We want that to be our identity.”
This approach also allows players to take calculated risks without fear of failure. Bobat added:
“Having multiple power-hitters ensures that the responsibility doesn’t fall on one individual, creating a healthier relationship with risk.”
Bowling for Chinnaswamy: Experience and Versatility
Given RCB’s high-scoring home ground, Bobat acknowledged the need for a robust bowling attack.
“We prioritized bowlers who can handle the pressure of bowling at Chinnaswamy. Players like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood bring experience and skill across all phases, particularly with the new ball and at the death.”
While RCB missed out on wrist-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, they secured Suyash Sharma as a backup.
“We were keen on Chahal but had a budget. Suyash is an attacking leg-spinner who fits into our plans.”
The Role of Virat Kohli
Kohli remains central to RCB’s plans, both as a senior player and a leader. Bobat praised Kohli’s adaptability:
“Last year, Virat role-modeled the aggressive intent brilliantly. Even when results weren’t coming, he led by example, and we trust him to continue that.”
The Road Ahead: Balancing Boldness and Discipline
For RCB, the mantra is clear: boldness on the field and discipline off it. Bobat concluded:
“Winning the IPL is our target, but the way we play is our obsession. If we stay true to our vision and play bold cricket, the results will follow.”
With a renewed focus on aggression, balance, and the right mindset, RCB hopes to finally lift the IPL trophy and silence critics. Whether this approach will deliver the coveted silverware remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—RCB’s style of play will captivate fans and set a high standard for T20 cricket.
