JioStar expert Anil Kumble talked about Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) upcoming ficture with the Rajasthan Royals (RR), discussing Gen Bold players like Devdutt Padikkal and Suyash Sharma.
Kumble discussed probable strategies ahed of their clash with RCB at the Chinnaswamy stadium.
“RR will need to look inward and figure out why they lost games they were in control of. They’ve got the team to beat anyone, but letting matches drift to the final over has hurt them. Someone like Sanju Samson missing is a big loss, but with the firepower they have, they shouldn’t be leaving things so late. Identifying form players and giving them the chance to play longer innings is key."
Kumble highlighted that the powerplay is crucial for both the teams.
"RR need to contain RCB’s top order and avoid giving them a flying start. With someone like Rahul Dravid, who knows the pitch inside out, they’re in good hands for strategy,” he added.
The JioStar expert stressed on the importance of flexibility and adaptability in T20 games and Rajasthan Royals' recent close loses.
"Rajasthan Royals need to reflect on where they've let games slip. They were in control but allowed matches to drift, hoping to finish in the final over—which is risky. Against DC, they failed to get nine runs and lost in the Super Over. It’s about identifying in-form players and giving them the chance to play longer."
Kumble also pointed out what should work from RCB's batting end, emphasising on long partnerships from the team's veterans.
"In all three matches where RCB batted first at Chinnaswamy, they struggled. Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal need to bat longer to allow players like Phil Salt and Rajat Patidar to come in and play freely."
"It’s not about the pitch but about having the right batting approach. If RCB bats first tomorrow and the pitch remains the same, I’m confident Virat will adjust and score runs,” he told about the pitch.
Kumble praised Gen Bold players in the TATA IPL, especially the consistency with which Suyash Sharma's has been playing.
"Despite his action, he’s been brilliant for RCB, bowling at a pace that doesn’t give batters much time. He’s developing well, with a top-spinner and leg break to his name. It's great to see him evolve and bowl better than last year. Young spinners like Suyash Sharma and others, like Digvesh Singh Rathi and Vignesh Puthur, are impressing."
Catch Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Rajasthan Royals at 7.30 pm today live and exclusive on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.
