Royal Challengers Bangalore have not been one of the top performing sides in the 11 editions of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
This time, as well, the Virat Kohli-led side would face a stiff task.
RCB have always had superstars, but when it came to delivering the goods, the team has faltered.
We decode why RCB won't win the IPL 2019 title.
Reason 1
Opening woes could unsettle RCB
RCB have fewer issues as compared to previous seasons.
But the opening slots remain a worry. They lack the base there.
They traded out Quinton de Kock and released Brendon McCullum. But the side hasn't replaced them.
This means Kohli will need to open with Parthiv Patel. But where are the back-ups? What if the pair doesn't click?
This can unsettle their campaign.
Reason 2
Kohli's captaincy has been questionable at times
Virat Kohli hasn't quite been able to replicate his success as India skipper for the RCB.
Kohli's decision making during IPL 2018 was a let down at times.
His major bowlers didn't bowl in crunch situations. He also has a habit of finishing the quota of prime bowlers early in the match.
At the death, he often took risks and that didn't pay off.
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Reason 3
Too much pressure on Hetmyer and Dube
West Indian talent Shimron Hetmyer and India's domestic rising star Shivam Dube were the headline buys in the IPL 2019 auction.
Both were bought by RCB to bolster their middle order.
Hetmyer and Dube could bring the solidity needed this season.
But these players are new in the system. And they will have to handle pressure well.
If they fail, RCB don't have back-ups.
Reason 4
RCB have faltered in pivotal moments
One of the major issues for RCB is that the side has lacked consistency.
The franchise hasn't been able to make Bengaluru the fortress.
Teams often believe that they can clinch a win in RCB's stadium.
RCB's dependency on some key players have hurt them in the past.
Can the side come out and deliver in pivotal moments?
One area that could hurt RCB.
Reason 5
Back-up bowling options do not have the quality
Yuzvendra Chahal has been RCB's main star in spin bowling.
But attributes of Washington Sundar and Pawan Negi are questionable.
Both these players lack the craft needed to propel a side.
They are inconsistent as well.
The pace bowling looks strong, but RCB do not have quality options on the bench.
The Indian pace quartet, barring Umesh Yadav, lacks match-winning ability.
Most asked questions
Who were the headline buys for RCB in the IPL 2019 Auction?
Asked on 05-01-2019 by Hansika Jhadav
Answered by NewsBytes
Shimron Hetmyer and Shivam Dube were the headline buys for RCB in the IPL 2019 Auction.
What has been the major issue for RCB in IPL?
Asked on 05-01-2019 by Hemant Jaiteley
Answered by NewsBytes
Their inability to stitch a consistent set of results and over dependency on star players have been the major issue for RCB in IPL over the years.
Why will RCB not be able to win IPL 2019?
Asked on 05-01-2019 by Ishan Chopra
Answered by NewsBytes
They have opening woes, besides lack of quality on the bench in bowling. The pressure on Hetmyer and Dube is huge.
Who are the key players for RCB in IPL 12?
Asked on 05-01-2019 by Aarav Kapoor
Answered by NewsBytes
Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Umesh Yadav are the key players for RCB in IPL 12.
