By Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has constructed a squad for IPL 2025 that is dominated by right-handed batters.
This strategic choice underscores RCB’s belief in their right-handed batting core, which includes both veteran players like Virat Kohli and rising stars like Rajat Patidar. While the addition of left-handed all-rounders brings balance to the squad, the major emphasis is still on right-handed supremacy in batting.
The absence of left-handers in RCB’s batting lineup may have various strategic implications:
Predictability Against Bowlers: A largely right-handed batting lineup may make it easier for opposing teams to prepare their bowling strategy, particularly for spinners who can exploit constant angles and turns. For example, left-arm orthodox spinners and right-arm off-spinners may have an easier time controlling the game against a right-handed lineup.
Limited Matches Against Specific Bowlers: Left-handed hitters frequently have an edge over specific types of bowlers, such as right-arm leg-spinners and left-arm pacers, by interrupting their favored lines and lengths. Without enough left-handers, RCB may struggle to counter these mismatches effectively.
Limited Flexibility in Middle Overs: Having left-right combinations in the middle overs might upset bowlers by requiring frequent field modifications. RCB’s reliance on right-handers may limit its tactical options.
To overcome these hurdles, RCB will need to rely on their right-handed hitters’ skill and versatility, while tactically deploying their left-handed all-rounders for balance.
