IPL has been about calculations apart from the miscalculations. The wrong moves have cost teams essential games when they were on the verge of winning those fixtures. Eerily, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) team has looked down the barrel on most of the occasions, too. Following a horrible start to this IPL 2019, the Men in Red have won three matches on the trot. This is some fight back amid the battle of playoffs.
Since the loss against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 23, RCB lost six games on the trot before recording four wins in last five matches.
Now, Virat Kohli-led side is left with three matches in the group stage fixtures. They’ve to win their remainder of the games – to give themselves an outside chance by relying on the results of other teams.
In short, the mathematical formula does exit as RCB has to take it in their stride.
The recent victory over Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) saw Kohli fired up with in-form AB de Villiers expressing satisfaction with the way lads have pulled up the socks.
Pertinently, in 11 matches RCB has lost seven games. Unfortunately, their net run-rate is -0.683 which is worst so far in this season for any team.
In all probability, the only miracle could help RCB to make it to the playoffs. On the other side, Mumbai Indians are left with four matches apart from Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). With CSK virtually becoming the first team to make it to the play-offs Delhi Capitals are a win away to secure their spot for the playoffs.
Basically, the progress to the knockouts for RCB looks pretty slimmer.
Well, a slip-up could put an end to their IPL 2019 journey officially. Even though teams losing seven of their games had their chances to make it to the next stage. But it subsequently relied on other performances which have highlighted the importance of net run-rate.
Dissecting RCB’s performance for the IPL 2019:
Following a bleak show with the ball, in particular, Dale Steyn’s inclusion has somewhat renewed a sense of hope among RCB’s bowlers. But, he has been ruled out of the IPL due to an inflammation in his shoulder. It would dash RCB’s hopes.
Overall, the bowlers have shown some character by rising to the occasion. But, it’s somewhat late for the star-studded side.
On the other side, RCB will take on Capitals on Sunday (April 28). But with the departure of Moeen Ali and Marcus Stoinis, it would be a tough job for Kohli and his men to fill the void.
Then RCB will play two home games on April 30 against Rajasthan Royals (RR) and May 4 against SRH respectively.