The Royal Challengers Bengaluru had a disappointing performance against the Lucknow Super Giants as they just missed their target by 9 runs. After the win, the former RCB skipper, Virat Kohli, spoke a few words regarding the quality of cricket that was played by the side in the last couple of games. He stated that they should try to enjoy the game as much as possible and that they shouldn't be worried about the results or opposition. They started their proceedings in dominant fashion but now they seem to be going through a slight rough patch with just 2 wins in the last 5 games. With the playoff race intensifying with every match, RCB will have very less margin for error in the remaining games of the season.

"Why we got to the six wins was because we were enjoying our cricket, we were only worried about our standards and we’re not even looking at the opposition. I want to see absolute enjoyment and excitement to get back to the park regardless of what the jersey color on the other side is,” said Virat Kohli in the dressing room after the loss against LSG. Even without the captaincy, his contribution as a leader on the pitch would be inevitable and his assistance to Rajat Patidar would be an important factor.

RCB’s batting concerns and bowling inconsistency continue to grow late in the season The Royal Challengers Bengaluru were off to a commanding start in the season with every team considering them as the team to beat. The opening pair of Phil Salt and Virat Kohli was arguably one of the best in the season and a nightmare for the opposition. The form of Devdutt Padikkal and Rajat Patidar has been another crucial factor with the kind of impact they have in the middle overs of the game. The power of Tim David in the back end of the innings was good enough for the side to set a powerful total on board. The bowling unit of the side was led by Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the power play and well complemented by the spin duo of Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma.

Their concerns have loomed in the middle of the season and they would look to rectify it before it's too late. The form of Jitesh Sharma has been poor all season as he had just one good short lived cameo against LSG at Chinnaswamy. The absence of Phil Salt would affect their power play as Jacob Bethell hasn't been able to perform well this season. Another lurking concern would be the inconsistency of Josh Hazlewood. He was their most lethal weapon in the IPL 2025 season as he was their highest wicket-taker with his disciplined lengths.

As the IPL 2026 season approaches its most crucial phase, the teams will be hoping to have the slightest edge over the other teams. With other teams keen on the form dip of RCB, the players will be hoping that they can make a solid comeback and seal their spot in the playoffs.