Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) all-rounder Shane Watson recently expressed his regret over his performance in the IPL 2016 final, acknowledging that it may have cost RCB the title. Watson, who played for RCB in 2016 and 2017 after a successful stint with the Rajasthan Royals from 2008 to 2015, made these remarks at an event at the Presidency University in Bengaluru.
In the IPL 2016 final against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), RCB’s bowlers struggled, allowing SRH to score a massive 208/7 in 20 overs. Watson, in particular, had a tough outing, finishing with figures of 0/61 in 4 overs. With the bat, he managed only 11 runs off 9 balls as RCB fell short by 8 runs in the run-chase.
Addressing the RCB fans at the event, Watson said, “To all the RCB fans here tonight, I need to profusely apologize. The reason why I need to profusely apologize to RCB fans is because of the 2016 IPL final at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. I was prepared as well as I could. I was hoping to perform my very, very best, but I had one of the worst performances when it comes to the bowling perspective in the final. And I most probably cost RCB winning that TATA IPL.”
Despite his performance in the final, Watson had a successful 2016 IPL season overall, taking 20 wickets in 16 games at an average of under 25. Throughout his career, Watson played a pivotal role in winning two IPL titles with Rajasthan Royals in 2008 and Chennai Super Kings in 2018.
RCB, who have never won an IPL title despite making three final appearances in 2009, 2011, and 2016, are currently in good form heading into the IPL 2024 playoffs. They finished 4th in the league stages after a remarkable comeback, having been at the bottom of the table initially. RCB will face Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator at Ahmedabad on Wednesday, May 22, and will need to win three consecutive games to clinch their maiden IPL trophy.
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