AB de Villiers: IPL triumph perfect ending for Kohli's RCB journey

AB de Villiers, former South African cricketer and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) icon, believes that an IPL title victory with RCB would be the ideal conclusion to Virat Kohli's illustrious career.

Kohli, a fixture at RCB since the IPL's inception in 2008, has led the team in 140 matches before stepping down from the captaincy.

He is the IPL's leading run-scorer with 8,004 runs in 252 matches, including eight centuries and 55 fifties, boasting an impressive average of 38.67. Despite his individual brilliance, a title has eluded him, with RCB finishing as runners-up in 2009, 2011, and 2016.

As IPL 2025 approaches, set to begin on March 22, de Villiers praised Kohli's competitive spirit and expressed hope that he will achieve the much-coveted IPL title with RCB.

"Virat is exploring new shots and pushing himself beyond his comfort zone, which speaks to his dynamic nature. Winning the IPL would be the perfect capstone for his career," de Villiers shared on JioHotstar’s ‘Power Play.’

He addressed criticism surrounding Kohli's strike rate, contending that the scrutiny was unfounded.

"Criticism of Virat's strike rate is misplaced. He has consistently played the role his team has required of him, anchoring the innings when necessary, especially given his responsibility," de Villiers explained.

Looking ahead to the new season, RCB, now led by Rajat Patidar, will face defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on March 22 in their opening match of IPL 2025.