RCB SWOT: Balanced on paper, but rust, injuries and pressure loom large

Defending champions RCB look balanced on paper, but rust, injuries and expectations could shape their IPL campaign.STRENGTH: RCB retained their core before the mini-auction and plugged key gaps, giving them a strong balance on paper. Virat Kohli and Phil Salt power the top order, while a solid group of finishers adds depth. The bowling attack blends firepower with experience, and Josh Hazlewood’s return will further strengthen it. Most importantly, RCB have evolved into a side that now shows composure and consistency in crunch situations. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!WEAKNESS: Several players lack recent match momentum. Kohli’s last competitive game was the ODI against New Zealand in Jan, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar hasn’t played since the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in Dec. This could affect RCB early in the season. Hazlewood’s absence is another concern, as the Australian quick was central to their ability to make breakthroughs during last season’s title-winning campaign.ALSO READ: RCB return home carrying hope and scars, aim to rebuild identity in IPL 2026OPPORTUNITY: RCB’s young domestic core offers significant potential if used wisely. The presence of multiple all-round and pace options gives flexibility in team combinations. New Zealand seamer Jacob Duffy could make a strong case with an early impact, especially in Hazlewood’s absence. Venkatesh Iyer, after a quiet 2025 season, has the opportunity to rediscover form and play a bigger role in the team’s balance.THREAT: RCB enter the season with the added burden of being defending champions, increasing expectations and scrutiny. Managing pressure and maintaining consistency will be key. A slow start could disrupt momentum and expose vulnerabilities, especially with key players returning from injury or limited match time. Handling expectations and sustaining hunger after last year’s triumph will be their main threats.