As the Indian Premier League (IPL) returns for its highly anticipated 18th edition, the buzz around Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is as electrifying as ever. The franchise, known for its passionate fanbase and star-studded lineups, has undergone significant changes ahead of the 2025 edition. With a revamped squad featuring an explosive batting order and a strengthened bowling attack, RCB are once again setting its sights on the elusive IPL trophy.

IPL 2025: Virat Kohli’s role in RCB’s title hunt

Virat Kohlithe heartbeat of RCB, continues to be a central figure in the team’s ambitions. Despite stepping away from T20 internationals, his presence remains crucial, both as a batsman and as a leader in the dressing room. Former RCB teammate AB DE VILLLIERS has expressed confidence that Kohli still has ‘plenty left in the tank,’ especially with a solid batting lineup around him.

Kohli’s strike rate has been a topic of discussion in recent years, with critics questioning whether he can adapt to the ever-evolving demands of T20 cricket. However, De Villiers dismissed these concerns, suggesting that while outside noise can influence any player, Kohli’s focus and commitment remain unwavering.

“I feel Virat’s taken unnecessary criticism over the last few seasons. I feel he’s batting incredibly well. There’s no doubt some of the outside noise has maybe influenced him a bit. We’re all human, after all. There was lots of outside noise in my playing days that had an effect on me, not necessarily my performance, but you do think about it. You’re only human,” AB de Villiers said during Star Sports Press Room.

AB de Villiers reveals Kohli’s request: No more ‘Ee Sala Cup Namde’

Interestingly, De Villiers also shared a light-hearted yet revealing anecdote about RCB’s famous chant – ‘Ee Sala Cup Namde’, which translates to “This year, the cup is ours,” This slogan has become synonymous with RCB’s passionate fanbase, echoing in stadiums and social media campaigns over the years. However, the phrase has also been viewed by many as a jinx, given RCB’s repeated failures to secure the title despite coming agonizingly close on multiple occasions.

De Villiers recounted that after he had casually used the phrase during a conversation, he immediately received a message from Kohli, urging him to refrain from saying it.

“I honestly, said those words the other day and I got a direct message from Virat, and he said, please just stop doing that now. So I got into a bit of trouble. But to be fair, I am exhausted saying it all the time, that the trophy is coming this season. Guys, it is the IPL, there are 10 world-class teams that could possibly even win a World Cup, never mind the IPL. It is an incredibly difficult tournament to win,” De Villiers concluded.

Kohli, who has been part of RCB’s journey since 2008, perhaps wants to avoid any superstitions or unnecessary pressure associated with the chant. The team has reached three IPL finals – in 2009, 2011, and 2016 – only to fall short each time, leaving fans heartbroken.