IPL 2017: 5 areas RCB need to improve if they are to make the playoffs

#4 Performance of pace bowlers

Tymal Mills has failed to live up to his lofty price tag

In IPL, RCB’s best seasons were 2016, 2011 and 2009. In these three seasons they were the runners-up and during two of these three seasons, one of their fast bowlers was among the top three wicket takers.

In 2016 it was Shane Watson (20 wickets) and in 2011 Srinath Aravind (21 wickets).

This year their best pace bowler in terms of wickets has been Tymal Mills with five. Forget the overall tournament figures, Mills ranks at number four among RCB’s list of highest wicket takers.

This poor show by the pacers is also a huge concern for the Royal Challengers and if they want to stay alive this season, their pacers must step up.

RCB are likely to play only one foreign pacer in their playing XI and even after not so great performance, Tymal Mills should be their first preference. The England quick hasn’t been at his best, but amongst the lot, he surely is the best bet. His speciality of bowling in the death can be a huge factor and hence the support team must help Mills to get his rhythm back.

Among the Indian pacers, there are not many options. Srinath Aravind has limitations while the uncapped Aniket Choudhary is too risky to use in this make or break situation.

Stuart Binny, on the other hand, has enjoyed success with the new ball and has control over swing. He can be effective for a couple of overs in the beginning and can also pick early wickets owing to his ability to swing the ball.