AB de Villiers Calls for X-Factor Spinner in RCB Squad for IPL 2024

Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batsman AB de Villiers has highlighted the need for an X-factor spinner like Rashid Khan in the team’s squad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. De Villiers expressed his views on RCB’s squad composition and the significance of quality spin options in a recent Q&A session on his YouTube channel.

De Villiers emphasized the importance of strengthening RCB’s spin department, especially after the release of key spinners like Yuzvendra Chahal and Wanindu Hasaranga ahead of the IPL 2022 and 2024 auctions, respectively. He noted that while RCB has bolstered its pace-bowling resources with the acquisitions of Alzarri Joseph and Lockie Ferguson, the spin department remains a crucial area that needs attention.

The spin department, I don’t think is strong enough. They could have done a little bit better.

“But, I think they added to the seam bowling, which has been the area that has let us down at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in the past. I do think Alzarri Joseph justifies that decision.”

In his assessment of RCB’s squad for IPL 2024, De Villiers highlighted the absence of “one or two incredible spinners” as a significant gap that needs to be addressed. He specifically mentioned the names of Kuldeep Yadav and Rashid Khan as examples of the kind of spinners RCB should target to enhance their squad’s balance and effectiveness.

De Villiers acknowledged RCB’s efforts to strengthen their fast-bowling department but suggested that more attention should have been given to securing quality spin options during the auction. Despite this, he praised RCB’s strategic acquisitions, including Alzarri Joseph, whom he described as a “very good buy” for ₹11.5 crore. De Villiers also commended the signings of Yash Dayal and Tom Curran, highlighting their value additions to the team.

“The spin department, I don’t think is strong enough. They could have done a little bit better.

“But, I think they added to the seam bowling, which has been the area that has let us down at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in the past. I do think Alzarri Joseph justifies that decision.”

While some critics and fans have questioned the price tag attached to Alzarri Joseph’s acquisition, De Villiers defended the decision, stating that Joseph’s performance justifies his price. He further praised RCB’s late acquisitions of experienced players like Lockie Ferguson and Tom Curran, emphasizing their potential to strengthen the team’s bowling lineup.

“(Joseph) Very good buy for ₹11.5 crore; I think it was a fair price. Yash Dayal also very good for ₹5 crore. Lockie Ferguson was a very good late pick up.

“I thought RCB was having a fairly average auction up until Ferguson and Tom Curran buys, where they got a lot of experience for not a lot of money. We all know Ferguson can bowl 150 kph. That’s exactly what you need at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.”

De Villiers’ insights into RCB’s squad for IPL 2024 provide valuable perspective on the team’s composition and strategic decisions leading up to the upcoming season. As RCB prepares for the tournament, the franchise will likely consider De Villiers’ suggestions as they aim to build a well-rounded and competitive squad capable of challenging for the IPL title.

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