Not winning the trophy does add pressure: RCB Chairman

The Royal Challengers Bangalore are one of the three teams which are yet to win an IPL trophy. The Bengaluru-based side has managed to reach the final of the Indian Premier League three times in the past 12 seasons. Following the 2019 season, a significant overhaul took place in the coaching staff of the franchise. Former New Zealand coach Mike Hesson was appointed the director of cricket operations and Simon Katich was appointed the new head coach.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli led the RCB team reached Dubai on 21 August and will be staying at Hilton's Waldorf Astoria Hotel for the next 80 days.

Speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, Sanjeev Churiwala - Chairman of RCB, talked about the pressure of not having won the title despite reaching finals on multiple occasions.

“Performance is something that motivates us and drives all of us. We have been three times in the finals, (but) never lifted the trophy. It does add pressure. There's no doubt about it. But there is also learning every time,” Mr Churiwala was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.

The team's performance during the last couple seasons has been a talking point and the team that is drafted for the upcoming season proves the credibility of the new think tank.

 “Our last two performances (seasons) have not been really up to the mark, but otherwise by and large it was not something that we should be really concerned about,” Mr Churiwala said.

The Chairman made it clear that Virat Kohli is the captain of the team, and the club is not looking at any alternative name.

“Virat is the Indian captain. And has the highest fan-followers. We all love Virat and love to be associated with Virat. Look, this is what (the) game is: sometimes you lose, sometimes you win, but let's not forget what that individual is and what kind of track record he has. As RCB, as an RCB owner, we are very, very proud that Virat is associated with us,” Mr Churiwala added.

The 31-year-old is the only Indian player in the history of the IPL to feature for a single team since its inception in 2008, and this will be his 8th consecutive season as the full-time captain of the Royal Challengers of Bangalore.

“We are very confident that at least we are going this time with a better squad, very clear preparations, very meaningful team. Rest let the team perform and deliver before we can speak more,” Mr Churiwala concluded.

[With ESPN Cricinfo inputs]