RCB's Director of Cricket Mo Bobat Emphasizes Humility Over Past Success Ahead of IPL 2026
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) director of cricket Mo Bobat has declared that the team will approach the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season with a mindset of humility, firmly rejecting any complacency stemming from their historic title win in 2025. Speaking at a pre-season press conference in Bengaluru, Bobat stressed that the franchise is not dwelling on past achievements and is instead focused on a fresh start.
"We're Not Carrying the Ego of One Year of Success"
Bobat articulated the team's philosophy clearly, stating, "This is a new campaign. It's a new season. A bit like last season, we weren't carrying the baggage of 17 years. This year, we're not carrying the ego of one year of success either. We have to start with humility. We have to focus on our game, our basics and what we want to do." He emphasized that RCB's primary goal remains to entertain their passionate fan base, adding, "Well, we always want to put on a show for our fans. That's for sure. RCB's always done that on and off the field. We want to put on a show for our fans. We want to play the way we want to play, and that's our focus right now."
Fresh Perspectives in a Transient Franchise Environment
Highlighting the dynamic nature of franchise cricket, Bobat noted that not everyone within the RCB setup has experienced the long 17-year wait for the title. "Franchise cricket is so transient and players come and go, and whilst our fans and the franchise might have been chasing that elusive trophy for 17 years, that isn't the view of the world of everybody involved," he explained. Citing his own experience, Bobat said, "For example, if I take myself, it was only my second season with RCB."
This fresh perspective allows Bobat and many squad members to approach the new season without the burden of past disappointments. "Whilst I'm mindful of the many years that we hadn't won the trophy, I'm not personally carrying that baggage. It's my second year. So, I've got a lot of fresh energy and a lot of optimism. That is true for much of the squad," he remarked.
Virat Kohli's Emotional Journey and the Squad's Mindset
Bobat acknowledged that veteran batsman Virat Kohli's experience is unique, having been part of RCB's entire journey through highs and lows. "Virat's quite a unique case in point. Obviously, he's done the whole journey, and he's, you know, he's ridden the highs and the lows of many years. So, for him personally, obviously, it was quite an emotional outpouring at the end of that game (IPL 2025 final), and that was quite beautiful to see," Bobat added, reflecting on the emotional significance of the 2025 victory.
Title Defense Begins Against Sunrisers Hyderabad
As defending champions, RCB are set to kick off their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The team aims to build on their maiden title success while adhering to Bobat's call for humility and a focus on fundamental cricket. This approach underscores RCB's determination to avoid the pitfalls of overconfidence and instead prioritize consistent performance and fan engagement in the highly competitive tournament.
