The ‘greatest of all time’ debate in IPL took a historic turn in 2025 when Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended 18 years of waiting for glory. In a thrilling final at the Narendra Modi Stadium Punjab Kings After defeating Australia by six runs, the franchise transitioned from underachievers to defending champions. However, as the 2026 season approaches, a burning question remains: will they be able to achieve the same feat of winning consecutive titles only Chennai Super Kings And Mumbai Indians Has done?
Famous leg-spinner and former RCB captain Anil Kumble has recently JioHotstar shared his views on, in which he Rajat Patidar offered a mix of caution and praise for the team led by
Anil Kumble gives reality check for RCB
History is a harsh teacher in IPL. Since the tournament’s inception in 2008, the pressure of defending the title has crushed many a veteran. Kumble was quick to point out that the path to winning the double is fraught with immense psychological and strategic hurdles.
“It will not be easy for Rajat Patidar’s RCB to win consecutive titles.,” Kumble said. He pointed out that the defending champions often become victims in the high-stakes environment of the league, with every team analyzing their plans for 2025 to find weaknesses. Kumble stressed that maintaining the same intensity after achieving the long-awaited goal is possible only for the most outstanding teams.
Despite the warning, Kumble expressed confidence in the team’s key players. RCB’s 2025 win was not just a coincidence; it Virat Kohli Such was based on a balanced XI of players who remain the heartbeat of the team, and Krunal Pandya And Josh Hazlewood On a disciplined bowling unit led by. in mini-auction Venkatesh Iyer The appointment of has further strengthened their depth, although Kumble suggests the team may stick to its winning combination to open the season.
Focus on Rajat Patidar’s captaincy
When Patidar was appointed captain for the 2025 season, there was skepticism in the cricket world. Faf du Plessis Like, replacing an experienced player and standing in the huge shadow of Kohli was no easy task. Yet, Patidar’s ‘USP’ was his steadfast calmness which became the catalyst for RCB’s success.
Kumble admitted that he was surprised by the appointment, having initially expected Kohli to become captain again. However, he credited the RCB management for their foresight.
“He was recognized as the captain, and with his experience with Madhya Pradesh, he led really well. Now it will be challenging because the expectations will be high. But he looks very calm and composed under pressure. This is their USP,” Kumble said.
As soon as RCB on 28th March Sunrisers Hyderabad As he prepares to begin his title defense against Patidar, the focus will not just be on big hits, but also on Patidar’s ability to handle the champion’s weight. Strong support from the home audience and Andy Flower And with a stable leadership group including Kohli, the defending champions are well-equipped, even if the path to consecutive trophies remains the steepest climb in franchise cricket.
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