Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) dream of lifting the IPL 2024 trophy hangs by a thread after their crushing defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday. This marked their sixth loss in seven matches, leaving them languishing at the bottom of the points table with a mere two points and a negative net run rate (-1.185).
Skipper Faf du Plessis and his men face a monumental task if they are to salvage their season and reach the playoffs. Here’s what they need to do:
Mathematically, RCB can still qualify for the playoffs, but they have no margin for error. They must win all their remaining seven matches. This will take them to 16 points, putting them in contention.
Even a solitary loss will put them on 14 points, making their qualification dependent on other teams’ results and net run rate. They’ll need a favorable outcome in other matches – scenarios most fans wouldn’t bet on.
RCB do not have an easy run ahead. Their upcoming fixtures include a clash with second-placed Kolkata Knight Riders, followed by encounters with Sunrisers Hyderabad (currently fourth) and Gujarat Titans (sixth in the standings). These are all strong teams, making victory far from guaranteed.
It’s a stark contrast to how RCB started their campaign. They began with a defeat against Chennai Super Kings but bounced back with a win against Punjab Kings. However, their momentum quickly fizzled out, leading to their current predicament.
Can RCB mount an improbable comeback and reach the playoffs? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: they need a complete turnaround in form and a stroke of luck to pull off this near-impossible feat.
Also, see:
Sunrisers Hyderabad score most sixes in a single IPL inning
