Absolutely sorted - Suresh Raina heaps praise on RCB's batting order ahead of IPL 2026

In less than 10 days, IPL 2026 kicks off with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru hitting the yard against their southern rivals, Sunrisers Hyderabad. As Rajat Patidar and company eye another phenomenal run, much chatter centers on how RCB shapes up for the upcoming edition of the tournament.

Speaking on the Star Sports YouTube channel, former RCB coach, Sanjay Bangar discussed how the entire team has pivoted from its earlier days, highlighting the strength that comes with this change.

Bangar said (translated from Hindi), “This team has taken a pivot. Earlier they would focus a lot on youngsters so that they could be properly harnessed and promoted. They also have an incredible scouting team. The current pivot changes the focus to experienced players.”

Bangar continued, “The ones who have come onboard, they are fairly experienced. Venkatesh Iyer, the latest addition, he is also experienced as he has already played for India. A standout thing about this team is that out of the seven Indian players, almost six of them have played for India. That is their biggest strength.”

He was joined by Suresh Raina who opened up on how big the challenge might be for the Royal Challengers and Virat Kohli. Raina added (translated from Hindi), “The moment Virat sets foot in Chinnaswamy, he will looking forward to getting a show of hands from all the players who are willing to all in to clinch a second consecutive title.”

He continued, “Ideally, when you go for a second consecutive title, the thought process is entirely different. As Sanjay bhai pointed out, that they have Indian players in their ranks. Even when CSK defended their title back in 2011, they also had such experienced players in their ranks. The team is so strong, they have bought Venkatesh Iyer, they have got Devdutt Padikkal who has been consistently performing in the domestic circuit. They have got Jacob Duffy and Thusara as well.”

Emphasizing on the batting unit of the side, Raina added, “Their batting order is absolutely sorted. Virat Kohli will make it clear that they want to be in the hunt for the second consecutive IPL title. They have got eleven players who are ready to echo his sentiment. It is more of a mindset. Virat will clarify that the last title was a result of immense hard work. Bengaluru has got a solid fast-bowling unit as well.”