May 17, 2025: Former India cricketer Suresh Raina believes the stars might finally be aligning for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Virat Kohli, as the team looks poised for their first-ever IPL title in 2025.
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Speaking on Star Sports, Raina praised RCB’s transformation this season, noting, “There are strong chances because Royal Challengers Bengaluru is playing in a different league this year. They’ve defended scores like 150 and 136 at Chinnaswamy and their bowling unit has stepped up.”
RCB, currently second on the points table with 16 points from 11 matches, are one win away from securing a playoff berth. Their impressive run has included back-to-back wins against Chennai Super Kings, both home and away — a feat Raina says highlights their positive mindset.
“The dressing room is positive and these are signs of a team that can go all the way,” he added, suggesting that Kohli, who came agonizingly close in 2016, might finally get his hands on the elusive IPL trophy after 18 seasons.
Raina also acknowledged the threats posed by teams like Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans, and Punjab Kings, but reiterated his belief: “This might finally be Virat’s year to lift the trophy.”
The IPL, after a brief pause due to India-Pakistan border tensions, resumes on May 17 with RCB set to face Kolkata Knight Riders in a high-stakes clash. All eyes will be on Kohli, especially after his recent retirement from Test cricket — a move that has only intensified the emotional stakes of this season.
Raina, in a tribute earlier this week, tweeted: “Your passion & leadership in Test cricket have inspired millions, brother! Love and respect bro @imVkohli.”
As RCB gear up for a decisive stretch of matches, fans are daring to dream: Could this finally be the year?