Virat Kohli’s Champions Trophy 2025 Brilliance-AB de Villiers Drops a Bold Verdict

Cricketing great AB de Villiers has never been shy of his appreciation of his erstwhile Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammate Virat Kohli. South African cricket great De Villiers once again heaped accolades on Kohli in particular referring to his outstanding performance in Champions Trophy 2025. An overdue Indian Premier League (IPL) championship with RCB would be the icing on the cake in the legendary career of Kohli, feels De Villiers.

Kohli’s IPL Legacy-A Story of Records, Not Titles

Since the inception of the IPL in 2008, Virat Kohli has been the face of RCB. Over the years, he has evolved into the tournament’s most prolific run-scorer, amassing an astonishing 8,004 runs in 252 matches. His consistency is evident in his record of eight centuries and 55 half-centuries, averaging 38.67. But for all these mind-boggling statistics, the IPL trophy has remained elusive for Kohli and RCB for 17 years. The team has reached the final three times, as runners-up in 2009, 2011, and 2016.

As IPL 2025 approaches, the pressure mounts on the batting maestro to deliver that long-anticipated title. De Villiers, who shared the dressing room with Kohli for years, believes that clinching the championship would provide the perfect climax to his already stellar career.

AB de Villiers Applauds Kohli’s Growth and Adaptability

Kohli’s approach to the game has continuously evolved, and AB de Villiers admires his ability to adapt. He notes that Kohli has stepped out of his comfort zone, exploring new shots and strategies to stay ahead in the game.

"It is great to see him flout rules and come up with innovative ideas," de Villiers told in JioHotstar's 'Power Play'. "He was always carrying the fire in the belly. You could see it in the eyes. It would be the icing on the cake for him if he wins the IPL with RCB, considering he has had such an amazing career till date." 

Dismisses the Strike Rate Debate-'Ridiculous Criticism'

Kohli has often faced criticism regarding his strike rate, but de Villiers firmly dismissed these concerns, calling them “absolutely ridiculous.” He defended Kohli’s approach, emphasizing that the role he played last season was exactly what his team needed.

There's too much make-believe talk about strike rates. It depends on the situation. If he has a friend at the opposite end, one he can rely on, you notice him playing more shots. Otherwise, he does what is required of him—holds up the innings and provides solidity. That is what good players do," de Villiers clarified.

He further compared Kohli’s role to other aggressive batsmen like Jake Fraser-McGurk from Delhi Capitals, highlighting that Kohli’s responsibility is far greater than just attacking every ball.

RCB’s Quest for Glory in IPL 2025

Under Rajat Patidar's captaincy, RCB is preparing for their IPL 2025 campaign, in which they will play defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 22 at Eden Gardens in their first match. Though Kohli has resigned as captain, his role still holds significance. His front-running nature and ability to lead the young crop of players can be the game-changer for RCB this season.

Can Kohli Win His Much-Sought IPL Trophy?

While the records of Kohli in international cricket and the IPL are not in dispute, there is one accolade that eludes him still—being an IPL champion. Fans and cricket pundits alike would hope that this season will put an end to RCB's drought of trophies. If Kohli can guide the franchise to victory, it will be the fairy-tale ending that he and his thousands of fans have been yearning for.

AB de Villiers' belief in Kohli is unquestioning. The old South African master, well-acquainted with Kohli than anybody else, believes Kohli has it in him to mastermind an historic IPL win. With another thriller IPL season on the horizon, everyone will be watching Kohli as he tries to deliver his and RCB's dream.