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The IPL auction has always been a theater of drama, strategy, and surprises, with every team striving to assemble the perfect squad. One decision that continues to haunt Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) fans is their choice not to use the Right to Match (RTM) card for Mohammad Siraj during the 2018 auction. Today, Siraj is celebrated as one of India’s leading pacers, delivering match-winning performances in international cricket and the IPL. With his recent heroics, including a phenomenal six-wicket haul in the 2023 Asia Cup final, the question arises—why didn’t RCB retain him when they had the chance?

Here’s an in-depth look at the reasons behind this decision and its lasting impact on RCB.

What is the RTM Card?

The Right to Match card is a powerful tool in the IPL auction, allowing teams to retain their previously released players by matching the highest bid made for them. It’s a strategic option to hold on to potential game-changers without entering a fierce bidding war.

Mohammad Siraj was part of RCB’s setup before the 2018 auction, and the RTM card could have secured his services. However, the franchise decided against it, prioritizing other players—a move that many fans now consider a blunder.

Why Didn’t RCB Retain Mohammad Siraj?

1. Budget Constraints

RCB entered the 2018 auction with significant financial commitments, having retained superstars Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers. These marquee players consumed a large portion of their budget, leaving the franchise with limited funds to strategically deploy their RTM cards.

Given their emphasis on securing big-name players, RCB may have felt the need to allocate resources toward acquiring experienced bowlers or all-rounders rather than investing in a relatively untested pacer like Siraj.

2. Siraj’s Inconsistent Performances

At the time of the 2018 auction, Mohammad Siraj was still finding his footing in the IPL. Although he had shown promise, his performances were inconsistent, and he occasionally struggled with economy rates under pressure.

RCB might have assessed his form and decided that he was not yet the match-winner they needed to retain. In hindsight, this decision proved short-sighted as Siraj’s career trajectory skyrocketed soon after.

3. A Batting-Heavy Strategy

Historically, RCB has focused on building star-studded batting lineups, often at the expense of assembling a balanced bowling attack. Players like Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, and AB de Villiers formed the backbone of their strategy, but the franchise’s over-reliance on batting left little room for nurturing bowling talent.

In such a scenario, Siraj’s value might not have been fully recognized, as RCB likely prioritized acquiring high-profile batsmen and all-rounders.

4. Misjudging Long-Term Potential

One of the critical missteps was underestimating Siraj’s long-term potential. While he may not have been a standout performer in 2018, the signs of his talent were evident. With proper backing, he could have developed into a core player for RCB.

Unfortunately, RCB’s auction decisions leaned towards immediate needs rather than investing in future stars—a gamble that didn’t pay off.

The Impact of This Decision

1. Strengthening a Rival Player

After leaving RCB, Siraj blossomed into a reliable bowler, becoming a key figure in Indian cricket. By letting him go, RCB inadvertently allowed other teams to benefit from his growth and potential, making their own bowling woes more pronounced.

2. Persistent Bowling Struggles

RCB’s failure to assemble a dependable bowling unit has been a recurring theme in their IPL campaigns. Siraj’s presence could have addressed this issue, giving them a bowler who excels in powerplays, middle overs, and even high-pressure death overs.

3. Missed Opportunity for a Homegrown Star

Siraj’s inspiring journey—from humble beginnings to becoming one of India’s top pacers—has made him a fan favorite. Retaining him could have added an emotional connection for RCB fans, much like MS Dhoni’s association with Chennai Super Kings or Jasprit Bumrah with Mumbai Indians.

Mohammad Siraj’s Rise to Stardom

Despite being overlooked by RCB, Siraj never let setbacks define him. His dedication to improving his craft transformed him into a world-class bowler. In IPL and international cricket, he is now known for his ability to swing the ball, deliver pinpoint yorkers, and handle high-pressure situations.

His six-wicket haul in the 2023 Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka is a testament to his skill, proving he thrives on the big stage. These performances have made him indispensable for India and a prized asset in T20 cricket.

Lessons for RCB and Future Implications

RCB’s decision not to use the RTM card on Mohammad Siraj highlights the need for franchises to balance short-term goals with long-term vision. While it’s tempting to prioritize established stars, identifying and nurturing young talent can lead to sustained success.

This episode also underscores the importance of building a balanced team. RCB’s focus on batting has often left their bowling unit vulnerable, a problem they need to address if they want to claim their maiden IPL title.