Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is at a crossroads, having endured yet another disappointing season in IPL 2023. Over the years the franchise has boasted a massive fan following and a star-studded batting lineup but again fell short in the knockout stage of the IPL 2023. It again raised questions about its ability to convert potential into championship triumphs which has been the case with RCB for some years now
Preparations for IPL 2024:
As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates IPL 2024, RCB faces speculations surrounding potential releases to facilitate a strategic revamp. This strategic move is crucial for a franchise haunted by consistent underperformance over the years.
As the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) prepare for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, rumours are circulating about potential player releases to make way for a strategic overhaul.
Some players, despite their talent, have not been able to contribute significantly to RCB's success and are now under scrutiny. While the official list of released players has not yet been announced, there are a few players who could be on the chopping block. Let’s look at who can these players be for RCB:
1) Dinesh Kartik
One player under scrutiny is Dinesh Karthik, a seasoned campaigner in the IPL. The 2023 season saw a notable decline in his performance, with struggles against spin, and once-potent batting prowess now seemingly one-dimensional.
His poor wicketkeeping also raises questions over his selection as the reflexes of the veteran seem to be going down the hill. Given his high price tag of ₹5.5 crores, it is financially wise to question the decision to keep a player whose performance has appeared to decline.
2) Harshal Patel
Another key figure facing scrutiny is Harshal Patel, the former Purple Cap holder. After a stellar 2021 season, Patel's form dipped in 2023, with his signature slower ball and yorker faltering.
He managed to get only 13 wickets in 14 matches at a hig economy of 9.66. Give his high price tag of 10 crores, peculations arise about RCB releasing Patel, aiming for a more budget-friendly cost in the upcoming auction or going for some other option which will be there in this year’s auction.
3) Wanindu Hasaranga
Wanindu Hasaranga, a potent T20 all-rounder, faced limited action in IPL 2023, raising questions about his underutilization despite offering lethal overs and spin-hitting skills. Despite his high price tag of more than 10 crores, RCB may consider releasing or renegotiating the contract of a player who has not performed well. In eight matches, he has scored only 33 runs at a strike rate of 117.86 and taken nine wickets at an economy rate of 8.9.