Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has endured a dismal IPL 2024 campaign, suffering a narrow one-run loss to Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday. This defeat marked their seventh loss in eight matches, leaving them languishing at the bottom of the points table.
Despite boasting a loyal fanbase and a roster of star players, RCB has consistently failed to lift the IPL trophy. Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa believes the franchise needs to rectify its strategy by bringing back some of the match-winners they have let go over the years.
Uthappa’s primary recommendation is to re-acquire star spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, who is currently the most successful bowler in IPL history. RCB released Chahal after the 2021 season, and he has since joined Rajasthan Royals.
“I would do anything to bring Yuzi back from RR,” Uthappa said. “I would even bring Harshal Patel back and prepare wickets that are conducive for bowlers to succeed.”
Uthappa also highlighted the need for RCB to retain their big players, citing the departures of Shivam Dube and Devdutt Padikkal as examples of players who have flourished with other franchises.
“RCB has let go of so many talented domestic players,” Uthappa said. “They need to invest more in bowling and the middle order, and they need to sustain their faith in their players.”
Uthappa pointed out that RCB has used a staggering 25 players in this IPL season alone, indicating a lack of stability in the team.
“RCB needs to make it harder for opponents to score runs,” Uthappa said. “They need to exercise more faith in their players and create a more consistent team.”
