RCB is facing a tricky challenge with several key players likely to be unavailable during the crucial run-in to the playoffs. England all-rounder Liam Livingstone, who was bought for a hefty Rs. 8.75 Crores, has so far struggled to deliver. In seven matches, he managed only 87 runs at an average of 17.40 and took just two wickets, which led to him being dropped in favor of Jacob Bethell and Romario Shepherd.
However, Chopra points out that as the IPL resumes on May 17, RCB could lose up to four players for the playoffs: Josh Hazlewood, Jacob Bethell, Romario Shepherd, and Lungi Ngidi. Hazlewood is currently injured and also part of the World Test Championship final squad, making his availability uncertain. Bethell and Shepherd are committed to their national teams for a white-ball series between West Indies and England.
Chopra explains that while Bethell’s absence might be manageable because Phil Salt is available (and Salt’s T20 international commitments start only on June 6), losing Hazlewood, Ngidi, and Shepherd leaves RCB short in the bowling department. This shortage could force the team to recall Livingstone and Nuwan Thushara, despite Livingstone’s underwhelming form, unless RCB signs a new player to fill the gap.
RCB will be looking to restart their campaign against KKR at home in the Chinnaswamy stadium on May 17, and this period will be critical for them to figure out how to balance their squad and keep their playoff hopes alive despite these absences.
