Mike Hesson spoke in detail about RCB’s bowling unit that proved to be extremely efficient in the precursor edition of the tournament. Barring Jason Behrendorff and Chama Milind, the Royal Challengers have retained the entire bowling unit.

Talking about RCB’s bowling unit, Hesson raved, “Bowling wise we decided to stick with Karn Sharma. It has so far been another very good season for him domestically. Proven again that outside of the international players, he’s one of the best leg-spinners going around and provides us that flexibility if we would have any issue with Hasaranga any time of the season. We’ve got a different way of shaping our side. We’re really pleased to have Karn back.”

Moving to the pace mafia, Hesson said, “We also have a good group of quicks. Within our pacers, we’ve got all the phases covered. We’ve got the likes of Akash Deep who’s gone from strength to strength with another SMAT under his belt. He’s getting quicker. He’s getting smarter with his variations. We’re really pleased with how he’s progressing.”

RCB's Director of Cricket Operations further said, “Sid Kaul, another backup player and top-wicket taker in the SMAT, certainly deserves his retention. We know that he will be ready to go if required. We’re delighted with Mohammed Siraj in terms of his pace. We know that he’s had a tough IPL but he’s come back really strongly with the white ball. His performance in the ODIs for India has been exceptional. He’s starting to swing the ball again. His wrist position is excellent. His pace is going up. Really delighted to have Siraj back to his best.”

He concluded by talking about the overseas options, stating, “Hazlewood will obviously be back. There is plenty of cricket for Australia. He might not play the whole tournament but we know that he’s really keen and back to be available for us. We look forward to that. We have got David Willey who provides a lot of flexibility in the roles that he plays. To have a player of his experience who brings multiple roles for just two crore is really important to give us that flexibility within the squad. Delighted to have David back.”

His final two picks were Wanindu Hasaranga and Harshal Patel and Hesson said, “They are key players for us not only in those batting roles but also with the ability to change the game at any stage. Harshal has come back from an injury and he is a very confident player and will play a huge role for us. He is exceptionally good at the death. Hasaranga has come off another quality World Cup. We know that he’s that man who can turn the game on its head with the ball and he was outstanding in the field for us last year in terms of creating opportunities and with the bat too.”