Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has revealed the internal panic and instability that plagued Royal Challengers Bengaluru during their 18-year trophy drought, contrasting it with their successful approach that finally delivered an Indian Premier League championship in 2025.
The Culture of Constant Panic
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif described an environment where bowlers faced immediate axing after just one or two poor performances, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear within the franchise. "When I used to play, everyone would panic," Kaif revealed, highlighting the stark difference between RCB's approach and that of successful franchises like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings.
"There would be long meetings where everyone would question why you did this or that," he explained. "Then you do not understand anything. MI and CSK have won five times each - these two panic very little and play the same team even if they win or lose."
Respect for Batters Over Bowlers
Kaif pointed out that the franchise historically showed tremendous respect for their batting superstars while being quick to change their bowling lineup. "There was a lot of respect for batters there before," he stated. "People talk about Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers, and Virat Kohli as always."
The former RCB player emphasized how this inconsistent approach affected player confidence. "Even Kohli has gotten out on zero but he is a great batter. He knows to come back and gets the chance. But many players did not get that chance as there would be changes constantly."
The Turning Point for RCB
This season marked a dramatic shift in RCB's philosophy, particularly in their handling of bowlers. Kaif highlighted how the franchise finally provided clear roles and consistent backing to their bowling unit, mirroring the approach of successful teams.
"This change in RCB has come for the good because they are making a team of bowlers now," Kaif observed. "Bowlers have been told their roles clearly and the plans are very clear too with backing."
He specifically pointed to examples like Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma as evidence of this new approach. "Krunal Pandya and Suyash, the way they have been backed, this has never happened before. No one has been backed how players have been this time in their history."
The result of this transformed philosophy was historic: Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally captured their maiden IPL trophy after 18 years of waiting, defeating Punjab Kings in the final to complete a remarkable turnaround story.
