What Makes RCB's Vision and Shape So Rewarding in IPL 2025?

New Delhi, May 31 (NationPress) Mo Bobat, the Director of Cricket at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), expressed that successfully defining the team's true structure, aligned with the vision conceived during last year's auction, has emerged as the most fulfilling element of the IPL 2025 season.

RCB secured the second position in the points table and reached their fourth IPL final by defeating Punjab Kings by eight wickets in Qualifier 1 held in New Chandigarh. They are now set to compete against the winner of Qualifier 2 – between Punjab Kings and Mumbai Indians – in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium on June 3.

“It’s a fact that no one can acquire everything they desire during an auction. It’s nearly impossible. However, we managed to obtain most of what we sought in terms of team members. More significantly, we accurately captured the team's essence and the vision that Andy and I meticulously discussed and contemplated; we truly nailed that,” stated Bobat.

“This has been the gratifying aspect of this season – witnessing that vision materialize on the field,” Bobat remarked in a video shared by the franchise on their YouTube channel this Saturday.

In addition to various players stepping up to secure victories for RCB, Bobat noted that the revised approach of head coach Andy Flower has been beneficial, especially with new captain Rajat Patidar leading the team.

“I have found it quite enjoyable to see Andy coach a bit differently this year compared to last year. The dynamics of the team and the captaincy have evolved. We fundamentally agree that we want our players to enter the field and make their own choices. To achieve this, it’s crucial to cultivate a decision-rich environment both on and off the field.”

“For Andy and me, fostering an environment where players feel secure, supported, accountable for their choices, and capable of showcasing their strengths is essential,” Bobat emphasized.

Before the season kicked off, RCB welcomed former player Dinesh Karthik as their batting coach, with Bobat noting that his inclusion was based on his potential to add significant value to the coaching team.

“In DK's case, we were eager to incorporate him the moment I learned he was considering retirement. Even before that, I believed he would provide substantial value as a coach. What we sought from DK was – mentor is a term frequently used in the IPL. I think he’s doing an excellent job in bringing that concept to life,” Bobat elaborated.

Karthik further discussed how the opportunity to pursue a title as a coach motivated him to accept the role and the mindset behind shaping the RCB squad for the 2025 season. “Being part of RCB is incredibly special. This is due to not only the cricketing style we embrace but also our passionate fan base.”

“Most importantly, it's a journey filled with numerous highs and lows. Yet, the trophy has yet to reach Bangalore. If I could be part of that journey, why not? That was a significant question for me. I know how close we were during my playing days. Here’s another opportunity for me as a coach.”

“I believe we performed admirably in assembling a well-rounded squad, understanding what types of players we needed and how each would fit into their respective roles. As we selected the team, we assigned players to specific roles and assessed their fit,” he detailed.

“We were quite clear on the batting order we desired. In our auction preparation, we had several combinations in mind, along with specific players we aimed to include,” he continued.

Karthik concluded by highlighting the differences that set the current RCB squad apart from previous line-ups. “The distinction between this RCB squad and earlier ones lies in the considerable experience across the 12 players, the depth and strength in batting, and, most importantly, the caliber of bowling. All these elements were very apparent. Additionally, there are numerous leaders within the team – not just one or two big names, but a multitude of leaders among the players we selected.”