Kane Williamson Hails Kohli’s IPL Consistency, Tips RCB for Strong Finish

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are preparing to break their home jinx when they host Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Match 34 of IPL 2025 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday. As RCB chase their first victory on home turf this season, all eyes will be on how their batting unit counters the experienced spin duo of Yuzvendra Chahal and Glenn Maxwell.

Kane Williamson praised Virat Kohli’s consistent performances in the IPL, highlighting how he has made an impact every season, including the ongoing one. Speaking to Star Sports, Williamson acknowledged Kohli’s unwavering hunger and passion for the game, emphasizing that his motivation with Royal Challengers Bengaluru remains as strong as ever.

He also expressed confidence in RCB’s campaign this year, suggesting that with Kohli’s leadership and drive, the team has a strong chance of making it to the final stages of the tournament.

Kane Williamson speaks about Virat Kohli

Talking on Star Sports, Kane Williamson said,

“Virat Kohli has done every season in the IPL – He is having an impact this season as well – hunger and passion remains the same for game. He is extremely motivated with RCB to push for a Title, and I’m sure this season they’ll be there”.

Chahal and Maxwell Set to Test RCB’s Spin Frailty

PBKS will deploy Yuzvendra Chahal and Glenn Maxwell as their primary spin weapons on a pitch that has already troubled several RCB batters this season. Chahal, who spent years in the RCB camp, understands the conditions at Chinnaswamy better than most. He regained his form with a match-winning four-wicket haul against Kolkata Knight Riders and will aim to build on that momentum.

Glenn Maxwell, although out of form with the bat, remains a valuable asset with the ball. PBKS are likely to use him strategically against RCB’s right-handed batters, especially considering his success in white-ball cricket against similar line-ups.

RCB’s batting unit has faltered against spinners in previous home games. Sai Kishore (2/22 for GT), Kuldeep Yadav (2/17), and Vipraj Nigam (2/18 for DC) exposed their vulnerabilities when the field was spread and spin came into play. The Bengaluru batters will need to show greater intent and technique to avoid a repeat.

Familiarity Breeds Strategy

Both Chahal and Maxwell bring insider knowledge of RCB’s approach and pitch behavior. Chahal has mastered bowling wider lines and luring batters into mistimed shots towards the deep. His pace variation has already proven difficult for aggressive batters to negotiate.

Maxwell’s controlled off-spin doesn’t offer extravagant turn but remains effective due to his subtle changes in flight and angle. PBKS will likely use him in the middle overs to keep RCB’s stroke-makers in check.

Patidar and Iyer Lead the Leadership Face-Off

RCB captain Rajat Patidar, leading for the first time in the IPL, will face a stern challenge against PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer, who has previously captained an IPL title-winning side. While Iyer brings proven leadership credentials and stability to PBKS’s middle order, Patidar is learning on the job while commanding respect from seasoned pros like Virat Kohli and Josh Hazlewood.

Patidar, a natural player of spin, may have to anchor the innings and take on the responsibility of neutralizing the threat posed by Chahal and Maxwell. Iyer, on the other hand, will look to continue his own strong form and counter RCB’s spin duo of Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma.

Pace Units Could Decide the Finish

While spin will likely dominate the middle overs, both teams possess pace options capable of shifting the momentum. PBKS will rely on Arshdeep Singh and Marco Jansen, while RCB will turn to the experienced pairing of Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar to strike early and close out the innings.

PBKS will enter the contest high on confidence after defending a low total against KKR in a tense 16-run win. However, they are fully aware of the firepower and depth RCB possess, especially in their home conditions.

What’s at Stake?

With playoff spots gradually taking shape, both teams understand the importance of this clash. RCB seek redemption at home, while PBKS want to extend their winning run and consolidate their position in the top four.

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