This Sunday, April 21 marks a unique occasion in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens. What sets this match apart is not just its crucial nature in the league’s timeline but also the attire choice of RCB. For the first time in IPL history outside their home city, RCB will sport their green jerseys instead of their traditional red, dark blue, and gold. This change is part of their annual ‘Go Green’ initiative, aiming to spread awareness about environmental sustainability.
The ‘Go Green’ initiative by RCB is not new; it has been a yearly occurrence since 2011 where the team changes their kit to advocate for a greener planet. Interestingly, the only exception was in 2021 during the second wave of COVID-19, when the team wore blue to honor frontline workers. This initiative aligns with RCB’s broader commitment to environmental issues, evidenced by their distinction as the first carbon-neutral cricket team. Collaborating with the India Cares Foundation, they have achieved significant milestones such as the restoration of two major lakes in Bengaluru, with efforts underway for a third.
While the green jerseys symbolize a noble cause, their impact on the team’s performance has been a topic of speculation. Historically, RCB’s track record while donning the green has been less than stellar. In 12 matches wearing these jerseys, they have secured only four victories. Yet, the recent sequence of wins – triumphs over Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals in 2022 and 2023 respectively – suggest a potential reversal in fortunes.
This edition of the ‘Go Green’ game is notably different. For one, it is being held in Kolkata, primarily because RCB does not have a scheduled day game at their home venue this year. Previously, apart from the 2020 season which was entirely held in the UAE due to pandemic restrictions, all ‘Go Green’ games were hosted in Bengaluru. The match also revisits the 2017 contest wherein RCB faced a tough defeat against KKR, underscored by a blitzkrieg inning from Sunil Narine and Chris Lynn.
Given their current standings and the need to win every subsequent game to keep their playoff hopes intact, the Faf du Plessis-led RCB is under immense pressure. KKR has already handed RCB a defeat earlier this season, with Narine playing a pivotal role. The rematch thus sets the stage not only for RCB to chase a win but also to harness the symbolism of their green jerseys to rejuvenate their campaign this season.
RCB’s endeavor to merge sports with environmental advocacy also highlights a growing trend where clubs are recognizing their influential role in societal issues. Through such initiatives, they not only aim to impact on-field results but also foster a greater connection with their fans and communities, promoting a message of sustainability and responsibility.
As the teams ready themselves for this crucial encounter, all eyes will be on RCB – not just for their performance but also for their continued commitment to a cause that extends beyond cricket. Whether the green jersey brings them luck or not, RCB’s dedication to environmental sustainability is a triumph in raising awareness and setting a precedent in the sports realm.