Defending champions RCB look balanced on paper, but rust, injuries and expectations could hamper their IPL campaign.strength: RCB retained their core and filled key gaps ahead of the mini-auction, leaving them with a strong balance on paper. Virat Kohli Phil Salt powers the top order, while a solid group of closers adds depth. The bowling attack combines firepower with experience, which will be further enhanced by the return of Josh Hazlewood. Most importantly, RCB has developed into a team that displays composure and consistency in crucial situations.Push boundaries with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!weakness: Many players have lacked motivation in recent games. Kohli’s last competitive match was an ODI against New Zealand in January, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar has not played since the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in December. This could affect RCB early in the season. Hazlewood’s absence is another issue as the Australian’s quick reflexes were crucial to their ability to break through in their bid for the title last season.Also read: RCB returns with hope and scars, aims to rebuild identity in IPL 2026Chance: RCB’s young domestic core has huge potential if used correctly. The presence of multiple versatility and speed options provides flexibility in team composition. New Zealand seamer Jacob Duffy could make a strong impact early on, especially in Hazlewood’s absence. Venkatesh Iyer has a chance to rediscover his form after a quiet 2025 season and play a bigger role in the balance of the team.threaten: RCB enter the new season with the added burden of defending the title, with expectations and scrutiny growing by the day. Managing stress and maintaining consistency will be key. A slow start can derail momentum and expose weaknesses, especially if key players are recovering from injury or playing time is limited. After last year’s victory, dealing with expectations and maintaining hunger will be their main threats.
