Virender Sehwag, former Indian cricketer and a noted cricket commentator, did not mince words when analyzing Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) batting performance during their recent defeat in the IPL 2025. Sehwag, known for his blunt and honest observations, expressed disappointment over the reckless shots played by RCB’s batsmen, resulting in their downfall.
The match in question saw RCB struggling with the bat, posting a meager total that was easily chased down by their opponents. Sehwag pointed out that the RCB batting lineup failed to show the necessary restraint, and it seemed as though the team was intent on playing extravagant shots rather than focusing on building a solid innings.
“RCB batted poorly. All of them played reckless shots to get out. Not a single batter was out to a good ball. At least one batter should’ve used common sense… they could have reached 110 or 120 in 14 overs,” Sehwag remarked during his post-match analysis. The veteran batsman’s words cut deep, especially considering RCB’s star-studded lineup, which is often expected to deliver big runs. However, on this occasion, the team seemed to implode under pressure.
Sehwag’s comments resonated with many cricket fans who have often seen RCB falter in crucial moments, despite having a roster full of talented players. The lack of discipline in their batting order has been a recurring issue for the franchise, and Sehwag highlighted that a more calculated approach could have at least helped the team reach a competitive total. Instead, reckless shot selection, coupled with a lack of application, resulted in RCB being bowled out for a subpar score.
RCB’s batting order saw a series of quick wickets fall as players looked to accelerate too early or played unnecessary shots to the boundary, only to find themselves dismissed cheaply. According to Sehwag, one batsman, in particular, needed to take charge and anchor the innings, playing with more responsibility to at least provide some stability. Instead, the constant fall of wickets created mounting pressure on the lower order, and RCB’s chase seemed hopeless from the start.
This critique from Sehwag highlights the inconsistency in RCB’s batting. While the team has had some spectacular individual performances in the past, there’s often a lack of cohesion, which has contributed to many of their early exits from the tournament. It’s not just about individual brilliance, Sehwag noted, but the team’s ability to construct an innings, read match situations, and play according to the conditions.
Looking ahead, Sehwag emphasized that RCB’s top order needs to take responsibility and avoid repeating such careless mistakes in future matches. “In T20 cricket, the game can change quickly, but it is crucial to keep calm and not throw your wicket away. Especially in a tournament like IPL, where every game is important,” he added.
For RCB, the focus should now be on regrouping and correcting these batting errors. With the tournament still ongoing, there are plenty of opportunities for the team to turn things around. However, if they continue to rely on explosive yet reckless shots, they will remain vulnerable against stronger sides.
Ultimately, Sehwag’s candid critique underscores the fine balance between aggression and control that teams need to strike in T20 cricket. RCB’s batting line-up, packed with power hitters, needs to learn the importance of staying patient and playing with intelligence, rather than throwing their wickets away in pursuit of quick runs. If they can achieve that balance, they might still turn their season around.