- By Manik Sharma
- Mon, 18 Dec 2023 02:16 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
IPL 2024 Auction: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have been the kind of team that consistently boasted a star-studded batting lineup over the years, featuring players like Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, and AB De Villiers. However, they often stumbled when it came to the business end of the tournament, primarily due to challenges in containing the run flow.
Led by Faf du Plessis, RCB will be keen on reinforcing its bowling strength, especially in support of pace spearhead Mohammad Siraj in pursuit of their maiden title.
Having retained 18 players, including Glenn Maxwell and Siraj, and released 11 others, RCB will be focused on building a lethal bowling lineup as per Mo Bobat, RCB Director of Cricket.
"Mohammad Siraj is a core part of what we do so supporting Siraj with some more bowling options including overseas bowling options is going to be a real priority for us moving forward," Bobat was quoted as saying in a RCB media release.
The team management released players like Harshal Patel, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Josh Hazlewood, signalling a complete revamp in the bowling department.
“We have got a core of local spinners, which I think is quite strong. Some of them got some opportunities over the last year or two and they might play more leading roles moving forward,” Bobat said.
With a budget of Rs 40.75 crore and seven available slots, RCB will be aiming for signings to crub any weaknesses in the team. RCB recently added a bowling all-rounder in the team by acquiring Cameron Green from Mumbai Indians for Rs 17.5 crore.
“We have got a strong core of retaining players, and we have got a very powerful top order. Part of the decision-making that we had around our player release decisions was to try and strengthen the middle order and bringing Cameron Green was a fantastic move," Bobat said.
Bobat said the team has to develop a brand of cricket that is both entertaining as well as reading in the long run.
"If we commit to our processes, play a brand of cricket that is aggressive, and have those moments where we're prepared to be brave it will get the fans going," Bobat said.
The auction is scheduled to take place on December 19 in Dubai, with 10 franchises engaging in a bidding war over 333 players for IPL 2024.