WATCH: Maxwell or Du Plessis to be dropped? Chopra thinks so…
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season unfolds, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) find themselves in a precarious position, with only one win in their first four matches. This has led to expert analysis and speculation regarding potential changes in their playing XI to bring the team back on track. Aakash Chopra, the former Indian cricketer turned commentator, has suggested that either Glenn Maxwell or Faf du Plessis could soon have to make way for Will Jacks in RCB’s lineup if they fail to pick up their performance with the bat.
Aakash Chopra, YouTubeI feel Will Jacks is about to play. It’s a matter of one more game if they go that far as well. I had probably said this before the tournament as well that you should somehow keep Will Jacks in the XI because he is coming with incredible form. Maxwell might be dropped first and then the captain might come under pressure. The pressure will come on the captain because Will Jacks is an opener. I feel that’s going to happen. Let’s see when Will Jacks gets a chance to play.
Is he correct?
The statistics draw a stark picture: Faf du Plessis, RCB’s captain, has mustered 65 runs at an average of 16.25 across four innings, while the ever-dynamic Glenn Maxwell has accumulated just 31 runs at a lowly average of 7.75 over the same number of hits. This slump in form for two of RCB’s most crucial batsmen has opened the door for discussion on Will Jacks’ inclusion.
Chopra has not only weighed in on RCB’s batting concerns but has also made recommendations for their bowling strategy. He has advocated for Vyshak Vijaykumar, who has recently impressed with figures of 1/23 in four overs against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), to be a part of RCB’s bowling XI moving forward.
Furthermore, in the batting department, Aakash Chopra has recommended that Mahipal Lomror should be considered over Rajat Patidar. This suggests a strategy revamp for RCB that could involve significant lineup shifts if the team’s fortune does not improve swiftly.
Pressure building
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru, backed by a loyal and passionate fan base, are under considerable pressure to stage a comeback. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching to see if the team will heed advice such as Chopra’s and make the necessary adjustments.
RCB’s management faces tough decisions ahead, and the cricketing community will be waiting with bated breath to see if the storied franchise can turn their fortunes around in the matches to come.
19:30 IST
