In a significant move, the IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has secured the services of Mo Bobat as their new Director of Cricket, a role previously held by Mike Hesson. Bobat, who has served as the England Men’s Performance Director, is scheduled to step into his new position early next year.
Reflecting on his time at the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Bobat expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’ve had the most amazing 12 years at the ECB, and it’s been both an honor and a privilege to have spent the last four years as Performance Director. Supporting our efforts towards multiple Ashes campaigns and World Cups has quite literally been the stuff of dreams.”
The appointment at RCB marks a reunion for Bobat and Andy Flower, with whom he had previously collaborated during his tenure with England. The franchise stated, “With RCB, he will oversee all talent recruitment and performance plans, and will aim to establish the cultural and high-performance foundations for sustained success.”
Bobat shared his enthusiasm for the new role, particularly working alongside Andy Flower, stating, “I’m really looking forward to working closely with Andy Flower, somebody I know well, to take on the baton and deliver the success that RCB craves. When the time comes, I’ll leave the ECB with the heaviest of hearts.” He added, “I’ll be forever grateful for all of the opportunities and support that I received over the years and will carry with me many special memories, shared achievements, and friendships. Andy and I are relishing the challenges ahead, and we’re looking forward to helping Faf and the players fulfill their potential.”
This appointment signifies RCB’s commitment to strengthening its cricketing leadership and performance strategies as they aim for success in future IPL seasons.