Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers has slammed India’s star batter Virat Kohli’s strike rate critics amid his impressive run in the IPL 2025.
The RCB opener has scored 505 runs from 11 innings at an average of 63.12 and a strike rate of 143.46. Virat Kohli has been an integral part of RCB as they comfortably sit at the top of the IPL 2025 points table.
Bengaluru secured 8 wins out of 11 games, having 16 points to their name. de Villiers has praised the star batter for his rich form, calling him ‘Mr Safety’ for RCB.
However, he also reacted to the crictics from former cricketers like Sanjay Manjrekar, Virender Sehwag and Sunil Gavaskar have pointed out the need for Kohli to show more acceleration while scoring runs in the middle order.
He also slammed critics on his strike rate during the knock against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
“Virat is always there. He is Mr. Safety for RCB. When he is there, you don’t have to fear. Never fear when Virat is near. That is the story. Nothing has ever changed, and what I want to tell all of you media people, I haven’t forgotten.”
“I have the brain of an elephant. To all my journalist friends out there, I love you guys. But remember when you said Virat bats too slow, right? Virat is there batting at almost a 200 strike rate last night. Eat that,” said AB de Villiers.
Virat Kohli scored 62 runs off 33 deliveries smashing five fours and as many sixes against CSK to help RCB post a massive score of 213/5 in their 20 overs.
Rajat Patidar-led side managed to register thrilling two wicket victory after some exceptional bowling in death overs.
Following their win, RCB climbed to the top of the points table, and have a strong chance to finish in the top two and get an extra chance to make it to the finals.
RCB will play their next game against Lucknow Super Giants on May 09 at Ekana Sports Stadium.
