The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction recently took place in Jeddah, where all 10 franchises made key acquisitions to bolster their squads for the upcoming season. Among them, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stands out for having built a well-rounded and formidable lineup. The team has a mix of experienced internationals and promising talents, ensuring they are well-equipped to compete in all departments, including batting, bowling, and all-round capabilities.

However, despite the excitement around the squad, one major question still lingers: Who will lead the team in IPL 2025? After a disappointing end to their title campaign in 2023, RCB fans are hopeful that the right leadership could make the difference this time. The captaincy issue remains unresolved, with former skipper Virat Kohliwho led the franchise from 2013 to 2021, widely regarded as the frontrunner to reclaim the role.

AB de Villiers names his pick for RCB captain

As speculation continues about RCB’s captaincy, former player and fan-favorite AB de Villiers has shared his thoughts on the matter. Known for his close bond with the franchise and his leadership insights, De Villiers gave a strong hint that Kohli might once again take charge of the team for IPL 2025.

“I don’t think it has been confirmed yet, but he will be the captain, I think, looking at the squad,” said De Villiers on his official YouTube channel, suggesting that the experienced batter is the best fit to lead RCB once again in their quest for a title.

Notably, Kohli’s past tenure as captain saw RCB reach the playoffs four times, with the 2016 season being the closest the team has come to winning the IPL title, finishing as runners-up. While Kohli’s potential return to the captaincy is the talk of the town, RCB management hasn’t yet confirmed anything.

De Villiers lauds RCB’s pace arsenal

De Villiers did not stop at the captaincy debate but also took the opportunity to praise RCB’s bowling attack, particularly their pace department, which has been a major area of improvement over the years. The 40-year-old highlighted the acquisitions of experienced pacers such as Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewoodboth of whom bring a wealth of experience and skill to the squad.

“We got Bhuvneshwar Kumar, happy with Josh Hazlewood. We did miss out on a couple here and there. Rabada was close, but at least we got Lungi Ngidi. He’s got a wonderful slower ball, if he is in form and fit, he is a force to be reckoned with,” added the former South African cricketer.