RCB SQUAD FOR 2018
Virat Kohli
The India skipper’s class and consistency will be vital. Coming off a great run, he will be eager to reprise his sensational 2016 season (973 runs) and make amends for an injury-plagued IPL 2017 that saw his side end last.
AB de Villiers
Among the most aggressive batsmen, he can tear apart any attack with his 360-degree stroke-play. Retained by RCB, and with recent fitness issues behind him, the season provides him a great chance to finally finish an IPL winner.
Brendon McCullum
The Kiwi stalwart lit up the first IPL game in 2008 with a century and is still going strong entering the 11th edition. At 36, he will play fo r his fift h team. He can step into Chris Gayle’s shoes or take up any position that the situation demands.
Yuzvendra Chahal
The India leg-spinner is a vital cog in Virat Kohli turning the limited-overs sides into aggressive units. The wiry bowler has held his own in a team o f batting stalwarts an dh is change of pace and ability to control the later overs will be vital.
Umesh Yadav
The India pacer was not used during the South Africa tour, but displayed his form at domestic level to propel Ranji champions Vidarbha to an Irani Cup win. The seasoned bowler has the opportunity to take over as bowling spearhead.
Quinton de Kock
His batting is suited for T20 and was a great buy for RCB in the players auction. After four seasons with DD, the Wicket-keeper missed last season due to injury. His ability to bat anywhere in the order will provide great balance to the side.
PAST PERFORMANCE
RCB twice came within a victory of crowning themselves IPL champions, but they were left to rue what could have been. The big fall of 2017 should spur them on. SUPPORT STAFF Daniel Vettori -- Head Coach, Gary Kirsten –
Batting Coach, Ashish Nehra – Bowling Coach, Andrew McDonald – Bowling Talent Development and Analytics, Trent Woodhill – Batting Talent Development and Fielding coach, Evan Speechly – Physiotherapist, Ramesh Mane – Acupressure Masseur, Arun Kanade – Massage Therapist, Avinash Vaidya – Team and Cricket Operations Manager, S Rajeswar – Logistics Manager