BENGALURU, March 27 (V7N) — Since IPL 2020, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have quietly become one of the most consistent sides in the competition, reaching the playoffs in five of six seasons and finally clinching their maiden IPL title in 2025.

The breakthrough came under the unheralded captaincy of Rajat Patidar, who succeeded where legends like Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis had fallen short. RCB’s triumph was shaped by resilience: a mid‑season suspension due to geopolitical tensions gave Patidar time to recover from injury, while Josh Hazlewood returned refreshed to star in the playoffs.

Hazlewood’s decisive spells in Qualifier 1 and the final against Punjab Kings sealed the title, with emotional scenes in Ahmedabad as Kohli celebrated alongside AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle. Yet joy turned to grief within hours, as a tragic crowd incident outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed 11 lives, overshadowing the victory.

Now regrouped for IPL 2026, RCB’s focus has shifted. Director of cricket Mo Bobat says the team is “not defending anything” but simply aiming to win again. The squad’s mindset is forward‑looking, acknowledging strengthened rivals and the need to respect opposition.

Head coach Andy Flower has praised Kohli’s hunger and fitness, noting he looks “at the peak of his powers” in training. Fans, however, remain anxious about how long their talisman will continue, drawing parallels with MS Dhoni’s twilight years at CSK.

RCB’s evolution traces back to 2024, when a record 287 conceded against Sunrisers Hyderabad forced a rethink. Their batting unit responded with 262, unshackling a conservative approach and sparking a six‑match winning streak. Kohli’s higher tempo and new strokes symbolized the shift.

On Saturday, RCB open their 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Chinnaswamy — the same opponent and venue where their transformation began. Reshaped by triumph and tragedy, and under new ownership, RCB now step into a new era defined by belief, resilience, and ambition.

Caption: Virat Kohli trains at the Chinnaswamy Stadium ahead of RCB’s IPL 2026 opener against SRH.