The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will begin their 2022 Indian Premier League campaign against Punjab Kings today at the DY Patil Stadium in Mumbai. The RCB will play under a new captain in Faf du Plessis, as RCB bought him for INR 7 crore in the mega auction before the tournament. And,  he will replace Virat Kohli.

During the interactions shared by the RCB’s official social media platforms, both were asked about the players ahead of the season, and while they named a couple of players each, one name was common for them – Indian youngster Anuj Rawat.

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“Anuj, I’m looking forward to that,” du Plessis said. “He is an exciting young left-hander. Akash as well, he’s someone who is brand new, there is something there. I like working with youngsters, the raw talent.”

Virat Kohli, meanwhile, named Sri Lanka star Wanindu Hasaranga and Anuj are two players who he looks at as exciting prospects for the IPL season. He also added that the Indian youngster is a big “breakthrough potential” as well. However, the left-handed batter, Anuj Rawat made his IPL debut last year with Rajasthan Royals and he plays for Delhi in domestic cricket.

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“I’m particularly excited about Wanindu, I think he is someone who could really come into zone. He has got the skills to have a very consistent season. Anuj is another one who is a very exciting talent. (He is) a breakthrough season potential. These are the names that I look at,” again shared Virat Kohli.