Royal Challengers Bengaluru held off Mumbai Indians by 18 runs in a high-scoring contest, posting 240 for 4 and restricting the chase to 222 for 5. The win keeps RCB in third place on the points table with three victories and underlines their strong start with the bat this season.
DK’s imprint clear as RCB batting clicks
Krunal Pandya pointed to Dinesh Karthik’s role after the match, crediting the batting coach for the clarity in approach. “A lot of credit goes to DK for our batting as we call him the Mastermind. He has worked really hard with all the individuals,” he said, adding that Karthik would be the “happiest person right now” seeing the plans come together.( RCB )
Karthik, who retired after the 2024 season, has taken up the role of batting coach and mentor for IPL 2025, working alongside head coach Andy Flower. His focus has been on defined roles and decision-making under pressure, something that is visible in RCB’s approach so far.
In every match this season, RCB have crossed the 200 mark. The batting unit has shown intent from the start and has been consistent in converting good starts into big totals, suggesting a clear plan being executed well.
Long-term approach paying early returns
Players, including Rajat Patidar, have also acknowledged Karthik’s influence behind the scenes. His message has been simple the IPL is not a sprint but a marathon and the side appears to be building its campaign with that in mind.
Karthik’s own experience as a finisher for RCB between 2022 and 2024 has added weight to his inputs, especially in guiding younger players in pressure situations.
With three wins already, RCB’s batting-heavy strategy is delivering results. More importantly, the consistency in approach suggests this is not a short burst, but a method they believe can hold through the season as they look to defend their IPL title.