AB de Villiers Celebrates Virat Kohli as RCB's Core
Synopsis
AB de Villiers shines a spotlight on Virat Kohli's pivotal role in RCB, emphasizing his unmatched leadership and influence within the team. As RCB prepares for the IPL 2026 season, Kohli's legacy continues to inspire both veterans and newcomers alike.
Key Takeaways
Virat Kohli is pivotal for RCB, providing both performance and inspiration.
RCB's upcoming season starts on March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Team contributions were key in last season's success.
Kohli's leadership has created a supportive environment for younger players.
The squad remains mostly unchanged, fueling hopes for another title run.
New Delhi, March 18 (NationPress) Former RCB icon AB de Villiers has praised Virat Kohli as the foundation of the franchise, stressing that the Indian batting superstar is crucial not just for his on-field contributions but also for the vitality and leadership he infuses into the team. De Villiers pointed out that Kohli's influence continues to motivate the squad, especially the younger members, solidifying his lasting legacy at RCB.
RCB is set to launch their IPL 2026 journey on March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore, marking the start of an exciting season. Following last year’s successful campaign, there are high hopes for Kohli and the franchise as they strive to defend their title.
“Virat is undeniably the heartbeat of the franchise. His consistent performances with the bat over the years, alongside the energy he radiates, make a significant impact. The way he carries himself both on and off the field, always advocating for the team, is remarkable. He instills a sense of belief in the youngsters that they can achieve victory, as RCB did last year,” de Villiers shared with JioHotstar.
“I appreciated how last season unfolded; he was one of the primary run-scorers, as expected from an opener, but others also made significant contributions. Previously, RCB often relied heavily on just a handful of players. This time, the entire team made contributions,” he further remarked.
Reflecting on the IPL 2025 final, where RCB ended their title drought, de Villiers commented, “The final was a prime example, with Virat scoring 43 off 35 balls. However, it was Patidar, Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, and Romario Shepherd who delivered high strike rates, helping the team reach a score over 190, securing the win. Krunal Pandya also played a vital role with the ball.”
He underscored the importance of teamwork, noting that Kohli’s leadership flourishes with a well-rounded squad around him. “The key is players stepping up consistently throughout the season, alongside a bowling unit that delivers. Virat senses that he no longer bears the burden alone. He has a group of motivated players striving for the trophy. I believe they are in a great position. The squad remains largely unchanged, giving them every reason to think they can go all the way again this season,” he concluded.
Point of View
This article highlights the essential role that Virat Kohli plays in the Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise. His leadership qualities and performance continue to foster a sense of unity and ambition within the team, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and resilience as they approach the upcoming IPL season.
NationPress
28 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Virat Kohli considered the heartbeat of RCB?
Virat Kohli is seen as the heartbeat of RCB due to his consistent performance, leadership, and ability to inspire younger players, making him a central figure in the team's dynamics.
What did AB de Villiers say about last season's performance?
AB de Villiers noted that while Kohli was a top run-scorer, the contributions of the entire team were crucial, marking a shift from previous seasons where reliance was on a few key players.
When does RCB start their IPL 2026 campaign?
RCB will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign on March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore.
What was RCB's achievement in IPL 2025?
In IPL 2025, RCB lifted their maiden trophy, ending a long title drought with a strong team performance in the final.
How does Kohli's leadership affect the team?
Kohli's leadership fosters a sense of belief among the players, encouraging them to contribute collectively and strive for victory, which is essential for the team's success.
