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It was the same old story for RCB in the 2020 IPL. They failed as a team once again. They started well initially, posting 7 wins out of 10 games. But then they lost 4 games in a row and just made it to the play-offs on better net run-rate. They were eventually knocked out after losing to SRH in the eliminator to record 5 losses in a row.

Since 2016 IPL where RCB made it to the final, the Virat Kohli-led side has flattered to deceive. They have had shown promise, but it has never materialized into success. So, even this season, although RCB look a much better side, they ended up with the same fate.

And all has come under the leadership of Virat Kohli. In fact, Kohli has the infamous reputation of being the only RCB player to be part of three losing IPL finals.

So, should RCB look beyond Kohli as skipper for next season?

Yes, Kohli has failed to deliver as captain

Kohli was outstanding in the 2016 IPL season, where he struck four tons, to lead RCB into the final. But since then, Kohli has been inconsistent and failed to inspire his teammates to play as a team and gun for glory. Since 2016 IPL, they have made it to the play-offs only once, and that too by a better net run-rate in 2020 IPL. Perhaps, RCB need a change in captaincy to lift the team's performance on the field.

Kohli burdened by captaincy?

Kohli's batting has failed to match up to the expectations since the 2016 IPL. He has not been able to replicate his batting success of 2016. And that has hurt the team's chances. It could be better if Kohli focus on his batting alone, and be the true match-winner he was before.

But, there is no clear substitute to replace Kohli

Kohli is one of the two best batsmen in the squad, and except AB de Villiers, there is no player who can shoulder the responsibility of captaincy. ABD is the favorite to lead if Kohli gives up captaincy or is relinquished from the leadership. 

But it's not clear if ABD would like to do that. In fact, ABD would just like to focus on his batting and keeping for RCB. 

AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli RCB
From left: AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli (Image Credits: CricketAddictor)

Hence, unless the management buy a player with proven captaincy in the next IPL auction or ABD decides to have a shot at captaincy, Kohli may be persisted with. But a change in captaincy could just change the dynamics of the squad, and lift the team's performance to go all the way.

Cover Credits: IPLT20official