Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) had a gratifying season this year, but the team still lacked the repertoire, that devoided them in the playoffs journey. In clear terms, it was a share of good luck that drove them the playoffs, as no other team have reached the playoffs after losing four consecutive league matches in the end.
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Inarguably, the red brigade were off to a fiery start and won seven of their first 10 matches. However, they couldn’t carry forward the winning streak in the matches that followed.
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As the eclipsed phase continues for RCB and the opportunity to lift the IPL trophy still stands postponed, we look at their performance in each department and analyze their weak points.
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BatsmenThe team’s batsmen showed consistency throughout the season. The franchisee was quite open in their approach, to bring forth the young guns, and Devdutt Padikkal made the most of it. He emerged as a top run-scorer for the franchisee, while following him are Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers on the list.Surprisingly, Aaron Finch aggregated quite less with the willow, given the fact that he was coming just after playing Australia-England series.Top performers: Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers
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WicketkeeperThe team had two wicketkeeper-batsman options- Parthiv Patel and AB de Villiers, but the team happened to see only de Villiers behind the stumps all throughout the tournament. Parthiv Patel could have been given a chance had Padikkal not shown the promising performance. Also, given de Villiers performance both behind the stumps and with the bat, there was little reason to include Patel in the squad.Top performers: AB de Villiers
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All-roundersThis is the department that lacked the lustre this season. Though the team gave a freehand to the young boys Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar, they did pay off their best, as we witnessed some economical spells from them. However, they still have a lot to work upon their batting. Nonetheless, as they say, it takes time and experience to come up stronger and promising; the same is applicable to both these youngsters too.Top performers: Washington Sundar
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BowlersThe is where RCB worked the most and their performance with the ball was quite visible in the tough matches. Navdeep Saini, who was not only economical but worked well on his bowling,which is evident from the fact that he leaked just six runs in the Super Over against the power hitters of Mumbai Indians (MI). Besides Yuzvendra Chahal showed his competency with the ball, which was not only economical but a leading purple cap-holder. Mohammed Siraj displayed his better version this season, while the overseas seamers, Isuru Udana and Chris Morris, had an average sort of season with the ball.Top performers: Navdeep Saini, Yuzvendra Chahal
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FieldingNo doubt, some lacking in the fielding is bound to happen in such an extended tournament. However, adding to the praiseworthy fielding, which was often led by Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers, the young gun Devdutt Padikkal is quite agile on the field. He, quite well, showed his brilliance on the field.Top performers: Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Devdutt Padikkal
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What could have been done better?Batting: After witnessing Aaron Finch struggle with the bat, the franchisee could have roped in Parthiv Patel for a few matches, just as a batsman. Maybe, his experience would have filled the gap that lacked till the end.Bowling: The left-arm orthodox, Pavan Negi, could have been a boon to the bowling side had he given a chance. He often foxes the batsmen with his smart bowling.
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