Former South African great AB de Villiers believes that an IPL title with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) would be the perfect final piece in Virat Kohli’s already illustrious career. Kohli, the face of RCB since the tournament’s inception, remains one of the rare players to have stayed loyal to a single franchise.
Over the years, he has cemented his place as the IPL’s highest run-scorer, amassing an incredible 8004 runs in 244 innings at an average of 38.66 and a strike rate of 131.97. His record includes 55 half-centuries and eight centuries, making him one of the most consistent performers in the league.
AB de Villiers, who shared a legendary partnership with Kohli at RCB, dismissed criticism over Kohli’s strike rate, emphasizing that the star batter always plays according to the situation and prioritizes his team’s needs.
ALSO READ: Ruturaj Gaikwad Recalls MS Dhoni’s Captaincy Chat Before IPL 2024
“The scrutiny over Virat’s strike rate was absolutely ridiculous. He did exactly what his team needed from him. It’s all about the situation. When he has a reliable partner at the other end, you see him play more freely. But when the team requires stability, he anchors the innings—just as any great player would,” AB de Villiers said on JioHotstar.
He further praised Kohli’s evolving approach, highlighting how he continues to step out of his comfort zone and innovate his game.
“It’s fantastic to see him trying new shots and exploring different aspects of his batting. Winning the IPL with RCB would be the perfect finishing touch to his career. Last season, he was outstanding. His strike rate was never the problem—he played the exact role his team required. Unlike a player like Fraser McGurk for Delhi Capitals, who could afford to go all out, Kohli had the responsibility of holding the innings together. He deserves full credit for guiding RCB to the playoffs,” AB de Villiers added.
ALSO READ: Brydon Carse Ruled Out of IPL 2025; SRH Name Wiaan Mulder As Replacement
For Kohli and RCB fans, an elusive IPL trophy remains the missing piece in an otherwise legendary career, and with each season, hope continues to build.
