Rashid Latif expresses skepticism over Virat Kohli’s RCB winning IPL with MS Dhoni still in the picture

The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) stands out as one of the most popular franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), yet they have yet to clinch an IPL title. This absence of championship success is surprising, given the high caliber of players who have represented the team over the years. One of the significant challenges RCB has encountered is their bowling performance, which has often been a barrier to achieving success in previous seasons.

Former Pakistan opener Ahmad Shahzad expressed that the inclusion of Mohammad Amir in the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) could be beneficial for the team in their pursuit of their first title. Shahzad shared this opinion during a discussion on a Geo TV show, which also featured Amir and former wicketkeeper-batter Rashid Latif. Latif commented that RCB should not expect to win the title while MS Dhoni is still playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

“If Amir plays for RCB, they could win the IPL title,” said Shehzad.

“Till MS Dhoni is there in CSK, don’t even think RCB can touch the IPL trophy.” replied Latif.

Mohammad Amir cannot participate in the IPL as Pakistani players are prohibited from the tournament. Although players from Pakistan took part in the initial seasons, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) imposed a ban on them due to political tensions.

For RCB to succeed in the IPL, Virat Kohli’s performance is crucial. Last season, Kohli excelled, earning the Orange Cap with 741 runs across 15 matches, averaging 61.75 and achieving a strike rate of 154.69, including one century and five half-centuries. Although there were initial concerns regarding his strike rate, which fell below 150 in the first six games, Kohli significantly improved his performance after receiving feedback, achieving a strike rate of 166 in the subsequent matches. Former RCB player and South African legend AB De Villiers dismissed any concerns about Kohli’s strike rate, asserting that he acted in the team’s best interest.

AB expressed that the criticism regarding Virat’s strike rate was unwarranted, stating that he performed exactly as required by his team. He emphasized that the context of the game matters; when Virat has a reliable partner at the other end, he tends to take more risks and play freely. Conversely, when he lacks that support, he reverts to his natural style, focusing on stabilizing the innings when necessary.