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On Saturday (April 6), the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) encountered yet another setback, even with Virat Kohli delivering a stellar performance, equalling his highest IPL score of 113. Despite Kohli’s remarkable innings, the Bengaluru-based franchise failed to clinch a victory against the Rajasthan Royals (RR), who continued their unbeaten run in the tournament.
RCB’s struggles in the IPL 2024
With RCB suffering their fourth defeat in five games, it seems they are on track for another underwhelming season, possibly missing out on a playoffs spot once again. The franchise has now lost four matches in IPL 2024, with their sole win coming against the Punjab Kings (PBKS), albeit in a closely contested match. Following their defeat to the Rajasthan by 6 wickets, many cricket experts have criticized RCB for consistently falling short of expectations. Apart from Kohli, the rest of the team has struggled in all facets of the game. The batting lineup has faltered, while the bowlers have been ineffective, conceding runs without making significant breakthroughs.
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Ambati Rayudu’s bold prediction regarding mega auction
Former Indian player Ambati Rayudu, known for his candid assessments of the franchise’s shortcomings over the years, made a bold prediction about player retention and releases after the current season for the mega auction. During the RR vs RCB match, Rayudu, in the commentary box, suggested that aside from Kohli and Faf du Plessis, RCB might overhaul their squad, anticipating a fresh start with new players in the upcoming season.
“They will release all the players, barring two. I think Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis will remain with the team. We will see a new team playing for RCB starting next season. They have similar problems every season with overseas batters, not firing while the bowling unit does not take wickets when needed,” Rayudu said.
Performance analysis
RCB’s struggles have been evident in their performances across the five games played so far, with losses against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Rajasthan. The lack of runs from key players like Glenn Maxwell, Du Plessis and Cameron Green, coupled with Mohammad Siraj’s loss of form in taking wickets, has further compounded RCB’s challenges.
