‘NO EXCUSES’: KOHLI’S RCB SUFFER RECORD SIXTH STRAIGHT IPL LOSS

BENGALURU — Skipper Virat Kohli said he ran out of excuses after his Royal Challengers Bangalore crashed to a record equalling sixth straight defeat in the Indian Premier League on Sunday.

Bangalore share the dubious distinction of a team’s worst IPL start along with Delhi (previously Delhi Daredevils), who suffered six losses in a row in 2013.

Kohli’s side, which has never won an IPL title, is rock bottom in the eight-team league and the captain has become increasingly frustrated at his side’s performances.

“We need to grab those chances, can’t give excuses every day. We weren’t good on the day again. That’s the whole story of RCB this season,” Kohli said.

“When the mind is cluttered, you wouldn’t be able to focus on the chances that come your way. Clarity of mind is very important in the game especially if you want to convert the half chances and pull the game back.

“Shreyas (Iyer) got 67, he was dropped (on four)...you never know, you can come back in the game at any time,” Kohli, who made 41 in his team’s 149-8, said.

Iyer was dropped by wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel early into his knock after edging a delivery from Tim Southee. The batsman suffered another reprieve on 42.

Bangalore have dropped 15 catches so far in their six outings and Kohli believes it is difficult to control things beyond a point.

“There’s nothing more you can tell the team. We’ve asked the boys to take responsibility. It hasn’t happened so far, and that’s the reality,” said Kohli, who leads the IPL batting chart with 5,151 runs.

“Personally, not trying to control. After a while, it’s about the skill. Key is to relax, whatever’s in front of us. We want to enjoy as a team, otherwise we won’t be able to play any good cricket.” —