Defending champions RCB look balanced on paper, but rust, injuries and expectations could affect their IPL campaign.STRENGTH: RCB kept their core and filled key gaps ahead of the mini-auction, giving them a strong balance on paper. Virat Kohli and Phil Salt propel the top order while a solid group of finishers add depth. The bowling attack combines firepower with experience and the return of Josh Hazlewood will further strengthen it. Most importantly, RCB have evolved into a side that now shows composure and consistency in crunch situations.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SIGN UP NOW!WEAKNESS: Some players lack current match dynamics. 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 at the start of the season. Hazlewood’s absence is another concern as the Australian quick was central to their ability to push through last year’s title campaign.READ ALSO: RCB return home with hope and scars, aim to restore identity in IPL 2026OPPORTUNITY: RCB’s young domestic core offers significant potential if used judiciously. The presence of more versatile and pacey options provides flexibility in team combinations. New Zealand seamer Jacob Duffy could make a strong case for an early impact, especially in Hazlewood’s absence. Venkatesh Iyer has an opportunity to rediscover form and play a bigger role in the balance of the team after a quiet 2025 season.THREAT: RCB enter the season with the added burden of defending the title, rising expectations and scrutiny. Handling the pressure and maintaining consistency will be key. A slow start could disrupt momentum and expose vulnerabilities, especially with key players returning from injury or limited game time. Their main threat will be managing expectations and maintaining their hunger after last year’s triumph.
