SWOT analysis of Royal Challengers Bangalore

IPL 2024: SWOT Analysis of RCB

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are widely regarded as one of the most popular teams in the IPL. Following the success of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) women's team in ending the franchise's trophy drought in the Women's Premier League, the men's team, led by Faf du Plessis, is determined to replicate this feat and secure their long-awaited IPL title in the upcoming 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), beginning on Friday, March 22.

With a new team name, jersey, and logo unveiled for the 17th edition, it remains to be seen whether RCB will finally end their IPL title drought. Money Control takes a look at the team and what may lie in store for them.

RCB STRENGTH

With a batting line-up comprising Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis and Glenn Maxwell – RCB will bank on their willow strength. Throw in Cameron Green and Rajat Patidar, their balanced top five can out bat any opposition. Rajit Patidar is known for coming heavily on bowlers from the word go.

RCB WEAKNESS

RCB faces challenges in their bowling lineup. Mohammed Siraj's performance was notable in 2023, but consistency remains an issue. Other pacers like Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, and Lockie Ferguson lack consistency. In spin, with Wanindu Hasaranga gone, Karn Sharma stands as the lone specialist. RCB will heavily lean on part-time spinners Glenn Maxwell, Will Jacks, and Mahipal Lomror. Managing the four-overseas-player rule poses a challenge for the skipper

RCB OPPORTUNITY

The revised bouncer rule, permitting bowlers to deliver a maximum of two bouncers per over, opens up opportunities for RCB's towering bowlers such as Joseph, Reece Topley, and to a certain extent, Siraj as well. They can capitalize on this rule change to increase their chances of taking wickets.

RCB THREATS

RCB's reliance on their top-order persists, reminiscent of past seasons. Initially led by Chris Gayle, now Faf du Plessis and Kohli shoulder the responsibility, as seen in IPL 2023. However, Dinesh Karthik's poor performance in the previous season, scoring just 140 runs at a low strike rate, raises concerns. RCB's history is rife with disappointments and setbacks. Despite boasting renowned cricketing talents like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, and Anil Kumble in the past, they have never clinched a title.

RCB PLAYING XI

Faf du Plessis (C), Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik, Mahipal Lomror, Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Siraj, Karn Sharm, Akash Deep.