As RCB gear up for their long-awaited shot at the IPL title - one of the franchise’s most beloved icons has sent out a heartfelt message.
AB de Villiers - the former South African star and RCB legend - shared his words of encouragement for Virat Kohli ahead of the final.
The big game takes place on Tuesday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where RCB will lock horns with Punjab Kings. Kohli has led from the front this season and will play in yet another final as RCB chase their first-ever IPL title.
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With over 600 runs under his name - including eight half-centuries - he is been the backbone of Bengaluru’s campaign.
What message did AB de Villiers give to Virat Kohli and the fans?
In a video shared by Star Sports on X, de Villiers had a simple but emotional message for his close friend and former teammate.
"My message to Virat is to go out and enjoy and have fun out there. Put a smile on your face. I will be there watching you. Bring that (IPL) trophy home. Enjoy every minute of it," he said.
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De Villiers played 11 seasons for RCB but never won the title. He also spoke to the fans who have stuck with the team through highs and lows.
"To the fans, just buckle up. It’s going to be a great final. It’s going to be one to remember, and just be sure that the boys will give their absolute best till the last ball." he added.
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RCB head into the final with confidence. They have beaten PBKS twice this season.
But they know this won’t be easy. Meanwhile, Punjab Kings stormed into the final with a dramatic five-wicket win over Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2.
Shreyas Iyer starred with a match-winning 87 off 41 balls. Tuesday’s final will see both sides desperate to make history -- while one team will walk away with their maiden title, the other will have to wait yet another year.