South African legend AB de Villiers has thrown his weight behind Virat Kohli, calling him the "ultimate team man" and backing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star to play a decisive role in the IPL 2025 final.
RCB stormed into the final with a dominant eight-wicket win over Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 in Mullanpur on Thursday, chasing down a modest 102 with ease. Kohli, who has been instrumental in RCB’s campaign, was dismissed for just 12 but stayed actively involved in celebrations from the dugout.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Speaking on JioHotstar, de Villiers said, “The first time I saw him on screen during the PBKS vs RCB game, I noticed that intense focus. He didn’t score runs, but he celebrated with the batters till the end. That’s what makes him the ultimate team man.”
Who's that IPL player?De Villiers believes Kohli, who has already scored over 600 runs this season, is primed for a defining knock in the final on June 3 in Ahmedabad. “He looks very focused. The job's not done yet, but I have no doubt he will play a big hand.”
The former RCB captain also praised the team's transformation this season. “RCB got the balance right at the auction. It’s not a one-dimensional side anymore. Every player has contributed — that's a sign of a healthy environment.”
Pacer Josh Hazlewood returned with a bang (3/21), and Phil Salt hailed his presence. “Josh is massive for us — not just with the ball but also as a calm head in the bowling unit. Having him back is the cherry on top.”
RCB will now wait to see who they face in their fourth IPL final, still chasing that elusive first title.
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