Published on: May 29, 2025 7:34 am
AB de Villiers, one of the most celebrated cricketers in Indian Premier League (IPL) history, recently shared his views on the ongoing criticism surrounding the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) bowling lineup. While several cricket commentators have highlighted RCB’s inconsistency in the bowling department, de Villiers responded with a balanced and insightful take that reflects his deep connection with the franchise.
In recent IPL seasons, RCB has often faced scrutiny for their bowling performance, with critics claiming that the team lacks quality in the death overs and struggles under pressure. Some even went so far as to label RCB’s bowlers as “ineffective” or “not match-winning.” However, de Villiers took a more optimistic approach in his commentary, focusing on the improvements made by the team heading into the 2025 season.
According to de Villiers, the team management has made strategic changes to build a more balanced squad. The inclusion of experienced bowlers like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and emerging talents has brought depth to the bowling unit. He also praised the leadership of new captain Rajat Patidar, stating that his fresh approach and calm temperament could be a game-changer for RCB.
Importantly, de Villiers defended his long-time teammate Virat Kohli, who has also been criticized for his strike rate in recent matches. “Virat is the batting captain of RCB. He controls the tempo of the innings, and that’s something you cannot replace,” de Villiers said.
While acknowledging the challenges RCB has faced in the past, de Villiers believes that the team is better prepared this season. He emphasized the importance of fan support and staying focused as a unit.
Conclusion
AB de Villiers’ comments serve as a reminder that criticism should be constructive. As RCB aims to win their maiden IPL title, a supportive and well-informed perspective can go a long way in boosting team morale and performance.