NEW DELHI: Former
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
all-rounder
Shane Watson
issued a heartfelt apology to the franchise's fans for his performance in the
2016 IPL final
in an event at the Presidency University in Bengaluru.
Watson, who played for RCB in the 2016 and 2017 seasons after a successful stint with Rajasthan Royals from 2008 to 2015, reflected on the crucial match that saw RCB narrowly miss out on the IPL title.
RCB had a remarkable turnaround in the second half of the 2016 season, making it to the playoffs and ultimately the final. However, their hopes were dashed by Sunrisers Hyderabad in the summit clash, where RCB's bowlers struggled, allowing SRH to post a formidable 208/7 in 20 overs.
Watson was notably off his game, conceding 61 runs in his four overs without taking a wicket. His woes continued with the bat, where he managed only 11 runs off 9 balls, contributing to RCB's narrow 8-run defeat.
"To all the
RCB fans
here tonight, I need to profusely apologize," Watson said.
"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 be. I was hoping to perform my 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 IPL."
WATCH:
Despite the disappointment in the final, Watson had an impressive season with the ball, finishing with 20 wickets at an average of under 25 in 16 matches. His overall contribution to RCB's campaign that year was significant, but the final performance left a lasting mark on him and the fans.
Watson's candid apology highlights the pressure and emotional investment players have in the game, and his acknowledgment of the fans' disappointment shows his respect and dedication to the sport and its supporters.
English (US) ·