Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will yet again try its luck to land a trophy in IPL 2021. Last season, the boys in red were decent and excited their fans for a brief period. However, they lost their way at the end and eventually ran out of steam.
At the IPL 2021 Auctions, RCB were quite busy in the proceedings. They hired the likes of Glenn Maxwell and Kyle Jamieson, while some Indian players like Mohammed Azharuddeen and Sachin Baby also arrived in the franchise.
As the fresh season begins, there are a couple of RCB players who are looking in good shape. RCB will hope that these players remain in the form so that the Bengaluru-based outfit can launch a genuine title challenge. We look at these players in this article.
1. Devdutt Padikkal
Young opener Devdutt Padikkal has been scoring hundreds for fun in the domestic competitions. Although he did show rustiness in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, the man from Karnataka has returned to form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He is showing remarkable consistency and is all set to build upon his terrific breakthrough season.
With him firing, RCB will be at an advantage as the likes of Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers will have a lesser job to do. This can help the duo be freer and play more attacking cricket.
2. Washington Sundar
Washington Sundar was excellent with the ball in IPL 2020. He will be expected to repeat the performance in the upcoming campaign. However, it is Washi’s batting form that will excite the RCB fans.
Ever since his Test debut at the Gabba, the all-rounder has been impressing with fine knocks in the lower order. On most occasions, these innings have come under tremendous pressure. RCB will hope that this form can stabilize the middle-order of the batting department.
3. Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj may not be a T20 specialist, but his form in red-ball cricket is likely to boost his confidence for the shorter formats. Apart from his skills, Siraj has made a name for his attitude and approach.
RCB has always struggled to find good domestic pacers. They have limited options for IPL 2021, and Siraj is one of them. The form of the Hyderabad cricketer could have a positive impact on the franchise’s bowling performances.
4. Josh Philippe
Josh Philippe has made giant strides in his career in the last few months. While the last BBL season announced his arrival, in the recently concluded campaign, the young wicket-keeper stamped his authority.
He was the tournament’s highest run-scorer and therefore, earned a place in the national team. In the yellow jersey too, Josh put up a few good shows and impressed the pundits. Although getting games would be difficult, his presence will put some pressure on Glenn Maxwell at RCB. Not to forget, Philippe has good hands behind the stumps and could contribute as a wicket-keeper too.
5. Shahbaz Ahmed
His recent knock of 48 from 17 deliveries showed that Shahbaz was more than a capable batsman. He has been producing similar cameos in domestic competitions. The man from West Bengal is also a good left-arm spinner.
RCB will play a majority of their games in Kolkata and Chennai. Both tracks support spin, and Shahbaz could be part of the plans. Hence, him being in the form will be a good sign for the franchise. He can play at No.7 or No.8 and provide depth in both departments.
