#NewsBytesExplainer: Reasons why RCB could win the next IPL season
What's the story
Every Indian Premier League season is a chance for franchises to lay hands on the prestigious silverware. With teams like Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians ruling the roost, Royal Challengers Bangalore have missed the trophy by a whisker thrice. The Virat Kohli-led side hasn't reached the playoffs in the last three seasons. Let's decode why RCB could win the trophy the next season.
Fast bowling
RCB have depth in the bowling attack, this time around
For the past few seasons, RCB have been struggling with the pace battery. Even after racking up enough runs on the board, the seamers are unable to halt the flow of runs. However, some notable picks like Dale Steyn, Kane Richardson and Isuru Udana, could prove pivotal this season. Chris Morris may well complement Navdeep Saini and Umesh Yadav in the attack.
Spinners
Spinners will add a spark in the bowling line-up
Spin often tempts the batsmen to play recklessly at Chinnaswamy. RCB have Yuzvendra Chahal and Moeen Ali at their disposal, and the international experience of Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar will also help the team. RCB have almost every form of spinner. While Chahal and Moeen come up with classic spin, the other two hit the deck more. Pawan Negi is another useful option.
Batsmen
RCB's batting order has the required ammunition
Interestingly, RCB don't look over-dependent on Kohli and AB de Villiers this season. The induction of Aaron Finch in the squad means the RCB skipper could move back to his original number three spot. The top order looks firm with Parthiv Patel opening alongside Finch. Morris and Moeen further brace the middle order. Australia's Josh Philippe may also get a nod.
Pressure
Current form could relieve the pressure from core
A lethal combination may lift the pressure from the core. This may also raise the bar of RCB's fielding, that has been heavily criticized in the previous few seasons. Furthermore, the current form of players could be a turning factor for RCB. Top-order batsman Devdutt Padikkal has a terrific record in domestic cricket. In 12 T20s, he has amassed 580 runs at 64.44.
Death overs
RCB have plethora of brilliant death bowlers in the squad
Remember when Andre Russell single-handedly stole victory from jaws of defeat against RCB. The death bowling then was under the scanner for all the right reasons. However, RCB have nothing to worry about with a promising death bowling core of Dale Steyn, Kane Richardson and Chris Morris. Navdeep Saini, who proved the mettle at the international level, will be a big plus too.
Information
Here is the full squad of Royal Challengers Bangalore
Full Squad: Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Gurkeerat Mann, Devdutt Padikkal, Aaron Finch, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Navdeep Saini, Kane Richardson, Dale Steyn, Isuru Udana, Moeen Ali, Pawan Negi, Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Chris Morris, Pavan Deshpande, Parthiv Patel, Joshua Philippe, Shahbaz Ahamad