In fact, a couple of weeks ago, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru side appeared to be one of the most balanced teams in IPL 2026. Suddenly, the discussion about the team has taken a turn. Back-to-back losing streaks have revealed a weakness that had been overlooked as they enjoyed winning streaks.
The defeat at Ekana Stadium to Lucknow Super Giants did more than just put an end to RCB’s flow on the pitch, it also showed off the need for the top order of the hitters to come up with strong performances. The middle order have been unable to assert themselves after the early wickets have fallen.
Now it’s in the spotlight for Jitesh Sharma and Romario Shepherd.
Jitesh was expected to play with aggression and finishing prowess in the lower middle order after his performance in the past many IPL seasons. Rather, his campaign has become a battle of rhythm. The pitch is in the right hands, but the runs just aren’t coming, and the lack of runs is starting to take a toll on the batting order.
The issues with Shepherd are a little different. He was expected to throw in some depth, as an all rounder. But in the pressure situations, he’s been a pain for RCB, especially at the death. Captains have always turned to their sixth bowler for control, but this season, the sixth bowler has often turned the game in favour of the opposition.
The more difficult part of the equation is timing. The tournament has become a point at which every game is now a factor in the playoff situation. There is no longer time to wait, teams have to learn to wait no longer. But tough decisions have to be made, including the use of experienced names.
Hence, the debate on possible changes of XI is picking up pace. In the upcoming matches, fresh combinations, change of batting line-ups and even overseas changes might form a part of RCB’s plan.
The real challenge for RCB is not on the talent side, as they have enough talent. The difficulty is to determine which mix is best for them in the clutch.
At this stage of the IPL, one loss does not deny any team the cut for the playoffs. When an issue isn’t addressed for an extended period of time, they are missing out.