Bengaluru: The secret behind championship-winning teams often extends beyond talent, tactics and individual brilliance. For back-to-back Indian Premier League champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru, team culture appears to have become the defining factor behind their sustained success.
That message was evident in head coach Andy Flower’s dressing-room address following RCB’s five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 final. Rather than focusing on records, statistics or silverware, Flower highlighted the values and leadership qualities that helped transform RCB into only the third franchise in IPL history to secure consecutive titles.
Flower praises Kohli’s influence
During his post-match speech, Flower described former captain Virat Kohli as the heartbeat of the dressing room.
The praise was not centred on Kohli’s performances with the bat or his match-winning contribution in the final. Instead, Flower emphasised the courage, commitment and example that the veteran batter sets for the rest of the squad.
According to Flower, Kohli’s willingness to consistently challenge top-quality opposition and put himself under pressure serves as a powerful example for younger players and teammates.
His comments reflected the significant leadership role Kohli continues to play within the franchise despite no longer holding the captaincy.
Senior players set the standard
Flower also acknowledged the contributions of RCB’s experienced bowling leaders, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood.
He praised the pair for leading the bowling unit with intelligence, skill and determination, particularly in high-pressure situations such as powerplays and death overs.
The coach highlighted the courage required to consistently bowl against some of the world’s best batters when matches are often decided within a few deliveries.
Such recognition underlined the importance of senior players accepting responsibility and setting standards for the entire squad.
Building more than a team of stars
RCB’s recent achievements suggest the franchise has moved beyond relying solely on individual brilliance.
For years, the Bengaluru-based franchise was known for assembling squads packed with star players but often struggled to convert potential into titles.
The management’s approach changed significantly during the recent mega auction, where the focus shifted towards building a balanced squad with clearly defined roles rather than simply acquiring high-profile names.
Players were selected not only for their abilities but also for how they fit within the team’s overall structure and long-term vision.
The strategy has helped create a group where every player understands their responsibilities and contribution towards collective success.
Trust and accountability drive success
Cricket experts often point out that franchise tournaments such as the IPL present unique challenges due to the presence of international stars, strong personalities and limited preparation time.
Creating unity and cohesion in such an environment can be difficult.
RCB’s success over the past two seasons suggests the franchise has effectively built a culture based on trust, accountability and mutual respect.
The team has demonstrated an ability to remain composed under pressure while consistently delivering results in crucial moments.
Different players have stepped forward at various stages, reducing dependence on any single individual and strengthening the squad’s overall resilience.
Culture becomes RCB’s greatest strength
While batting averages, bowling figures and championship trophies attract most of the attention, Flower’s speech offered a glimpse into the less visible aspects of RCB’s success.
The coach’s focus on courage, leadership and character highlighted the values that have become embedded within the franchise’s culture.
These qualities may not appear on scorecards or feature in post-match statistics, but they often separate good teams from championship-winning sides.
As RCB celebrate their second consecutive IPL title, many observers believe the culture established within the dressing room could become the foundation for sustained success in the years ahead.
With strong leadership, clearly defined roles and a collective commitment to excellence, RCB appear to have built more than a winning team—they have built a winning culture.