Former South African captain and RCB legend AB de Villiers has weighed in on Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) packed IPL 2025 schedule, calling it “crazy” but potentially beneficial. Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, RCB has kicked off their campaign in electrifying fashion, securing back-to-back thrilling victories against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
With these two commanding wins, RCB has surged to the top of the IPL 2025 points table, making an early statement that they are serious contenders for the title. Their campaign began with a clinical seven-wicket triumph over KKR on their home turf, followed by an emphatic 50-run demolition of CSK at Chepauk.
These victories have not only bolstered their confidence but have also set the tone for a season where RCB aims to break their elusive IPL trophy drought. However, the road ahead is anything but easy. RCB now prepares for a crucial home fixture against Gujarat Titans at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on April 2.
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Following that, the grueling schedule kicks in, with a trip to Mumbai for a showdown against Mumbai Indians on April 7. They will then return home to face Delhi Capitals on April 10, only to hit the road again for an April 13 clash against Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur. Reflecting on this relentless travel schedule, AB de Villiers expressed his surprise at the fixture layout but suggested that frequent movement could actually work in RCB’s favor.
“The start of a campaign is never easy, but they’ve nailed it so far. Just look at their schedule: away, away, home, away again, home, away—it’s crazy. I’ve never seen a situation like this, but it could be a hidden advantage,” AB de Villiers remarked on his podcast.
The legendary batter highlighted that an excessive number of home games in a row can sometimes detach players from the team environment as they get caught up in personal routines. He believes that constant travel can help the squad stay connected and maintain momentum.
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“It keeps the squad together, especially when you start finding rhythm. When you travel together, you bond. If you have four home games in a row, players tend to do their own thing—go to restaurants, catch up with family—and that connection within the squad can fade. Moving around keeps everyone in sync,” AB de Villiers explained.
As RCB gears up for another crucial phase of the tournament, their ability to adapt to this rigorous schedule could determine whether this season finally marks the end of their long wait for an IPL title.
