‘Greatest of all time’ debate in IPL takes historic turn in 2025 Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Finally his 18 year wait for Gaurav is over. after defeating punjab kings By six runs in a thrilling final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the franchise went from underachievers to defending champions. However, as the 2026 season approaches, the burning question remains: can they only Chennai Super Kings And Mumbai Indians Achieved by winning back-to-back titles?
Great leg spinner and former captain of RCB Anil Kumble Recently shared his candid thoughts jiohotstaroffers a mixture of caution and admiration for Rajat Patidar-LED side.
Anil Kumble is considering a 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 veterans. Kumble was quick to point out that the path to the double was fraught with immense psychological and tactical obstacles.
“It will not be easy for Rajat Patidar’s RCB to win consecutive titles.Kumble commented. He highlighted that the defending champions often become victims in the high-stakes environment of the league, with every team analyzing their 2025 blueprint to find the cracks. Kumble emphasized that maintaining the same intensity after achieving the long-awaited goal is a feat that only the most elite teams have achieved.
Despite the warning, Kumble expressed confidence in the core members of the team. RCB’s 2025 win was no mere coincidence; It was built on a balanced XI which included players like Virat KohliWho remains the heartbeat of the team, and leads a disciplined bowling unit Krunal Pandya And Josh Hazlewood. sum of Venkatesh Iyer Their depth further increases in the mini-auction, although Kumble suggests the team may stick to its winning combination for the opening match of the season.
Also read: Sanjay Bangar chose his Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) playing eleven for IPL 2026.
Rajat Patidar’s leadership under the microscope
When Patidar was made the captain for the 2025 season, the cricket world was skeptical. like replacing the experienced Faf du Plessis Whereas standing in Kohli’s huge shadow was no small task. Yet, Patidar’s ‘USP’ his unwavering patience became the catalyst for RCB’s success.
Kumble admitted that he was among those surprised by the appointment, having initially expected Kohli to take over the captaincy again. However, he credited the RCB management for their foresight.
“He was recognized as the captain and because of his experience with Madhya Pradesh he led really well. Now it will be challenging because the expectations will be very high. But he looks very composed and calm even under pressure. This is their USPKumble said.
As RCB prepares to kick off their title defense on March 28 Sunrisers Hyderabad At the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the focus will not just be on big hits but also on Patidar’s ability to control the champion’s weight. Including the strong support of the home crowd and a stable leadership group andy flowers And Kohli, the defending champion, is well equipped, even if the path to consecutive trophies remains the toughest climb in franchise cricket.
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