Royal Challengers Bengaluru Seek Redemption at Home After IPL 2025 Struggles Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the defending IPL champions, are returning to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium this season with a renewed focus on reclaiming their home dominance. However, the team faces the challenge of overcoming a disappointing record from last season, where they secured just two wins in seven home matches. Despite the passionate support of their fans, the franchise struggled to replicate their title-winning form in familiar conditions, losing four games and having one match abandoned due to weather. RCB’s director of cricket, Mo Bobat, acknowledged the team’s shortcomings at home but emphasized the intangible advantages of playing in Bengaluru. “It hasn’t always been the fortress we’d like it to be, and we’re honest about that,” he said. “But there’s something special about playing here.” Bobat highlighted the team’s ability to adapt, noting that they learned from their early-season struggles and aim to start the 2026 campaign with the same momentum that carried them to their first IPL title. The victory in 2025, while celebrated, was tinged with mixed emotions for the team. Bobat reflected on the significance of the win, particularly given the 17-year journey to achieve it. “That title meant a lot,” he said. “Franchise cricket moves quickly, but when you’ve been chasing something for 17 years, it carries weight.” He also praised the emotional impact of the win, especially with key players like Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle, and AB de Villiers contributing to the historic moment. For the 2026 season, RCB faces a dual challenge: improving their home record while managing two “home” fixtures in Raipur, a backup venue.#ipl_2026 #royal_challengers_bengaluru #m_chinnaswamy_stadium #mo_bobat #rajesh_menon
