South African cricket legend AB de Villiers is asking Kohli, the ultimate team man, to step up in the final clash and help Royal Challengers Bangalore to their maiden IPL title. In the first qualifier, RCB registered an easy win by eight wickets against the Punjab Kings to enter the final of the 2025 season. Kohli remains a key player this season, and while his contribution came at a rather low score in the qualifier, de Villiers feels the Indian star will have a massive scoreboard impact in the title clash to be played in Ahmedabad on June 3.
From de Villiers: “I sort of can say that I first got a good look at Kohli’s focus when he stepped off the bus for the PBKS vs. RCB game. Even though he didn’t score, Kohli stayed on to celebrate with the rest of the team. He’s a pure team player, so determined. The job’s not done yet, but I can’t wait to see how he performs in the final.”
Since the IPL started back in 2008, RCB has unsuccessfully pursued an IPL crown, failing in three finals in the process. De Villiers thus went down memory lane about RCB’s journey while considering their chances this year.
According to him, “2011 was a real shot at the title, and while people remember 2016, we should focus on today. Here they are again, in the final-2025. It’s closer than it seems. I felt RCB really got their strategy right this year during the auction. The team isn’t just strong in batting or bowling; they have options. I loved how the squad looked. They really came together as a unit, with everyone contributing at different times. That’s a good sign.”
RCB’s pace bowler Josh Hazlewood came in for a strong comeback after absence from some games, and opener Salt put forward just how vital he is to the team.
Read Also:- Most Run Scorers in IPL 2025
Josh is a huge asset for us-not just for his great bowling but also because he is a calm presence for others on the field. The best thing for us is just to have him back. His performance was phenomenal, and we are so happy that he’s fit now.
