IPL 2023: Royal Challengers Bangalore SWOT Analysis

The 16th edition of the IPL is all set to entertain fans with mouth-watering action. Royal Challengers Bangalore resumes their quest for their maiden title. The Bangalore-based franchise qualified for the playoffs for a third successive time in last year’s edition. Their charge was halted by eventual runners-up Rajasthan Royals in 2nd Qualifier.

Let’s analyse Bangalore Squad:

Strength

RCB boasts of a star-studded batting order that features the likes of Faf du Plessis, Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell, Dinesh Karthik, and Finn Allen. The onus will be on the experienced duo of du Plessis and Kohli. They will be entrusted to do the bulk of the scoring at the top of the order. Meanwhile, Karthik and Maxwell will have to be at their explosive best in the latter stages of the match.

Weakness

Bangalore’s weakness is their much-talked-about bowling line-up. While they boast of some of the best white-ball bowlers in Wanindu Hasaranga and Josh Hazlewood, they do not have much firepower in the Indian contingent beyond Mohammed Siraj and Harshal Patel. An injury concern with Hazlewood also deepens their worry.

Opportunities

Will Jack’s unfortunate injury forced RCB into action, which led to the capture of New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell. The Kiwi has been a revelation for his national side since making his debut and could turn out to be an invaluable asset on the Indian pitches given his history of playing on subcontinent conditions. Jammu and Kashmir’s Avinash Singh was roped in by the franchise in the auction. He comes in with a reputation for hitting the 150kph mark.

Threats

RCB has made it to the playoffs in all three previous seasons. But, they are still to make an appearance in the final since their defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2016. While they boast of some of the topmost international talents, their inability to get over the line in pressure situations has been their Achilles’ heel.

Royal Challenger Bangalore updated squad: