'I feel he has taken unnecessary criticism...' - Former South Africa cricketer takes stand for Virat Kohli ahead of IPL 2025

Former South Africa cricketer AB de Villiers takes a stand for Virat Kohli ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. According to the former cricketer, Kohli has been getting a lot of criticism in the last few seasons, and that is the reason why he hasn't been available much to the outside world. 

"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. You go to your hotel room and think, am I still good enough? Should I still be here? Must I ask the coach to maybe bat in a different position? Am I doing the right thing for the team?" said AB de Villiers. 

Kohli recently opened up about not posting anything on social media because it doesn't matter to him anymore. He is one of the best players in the world, and the fans will be looking forward to seeing him bat in the 18th season of the IPL. RCB had an Unbox Event on March 17, which was a grand success. 

I don't think Virat's going to feel a lot of pressure: AB de Villiers

AB de Villiers also spoke about the upcoming IPL and made a clear statement that 'RCB has got this season.' RCB is one of the oldest teams in the tournament but haven't won a single title yet. This year might be different for the team as they have a balanced team. 

Also Read: Virat Kohli on RCB captain Rajat Patidar during Unbox Event 2025

"He might have called retirement on international T20 cricket, but I feel there's plenty left in the tent for Virat, especially with a batting line-up. RCB has got this season. I don't think Virat's going to feel a lot of pressure. He can just really go out there and play what he sees in front of him. And that is when Virat is at his absolute best when he plays the situation," added AB de Villiers.