Suresh Raina has confidently predicted a new IPL winner this season, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru leading the race. Having played a key role in CSK‘s four title wins, Raina believes the connection between Virat Kohli and the number 18 could be significant in Bengaluru’s success. Under Rajat Patidar’s leadership, RCB have made it to the final after a nine-year absence, and following their dominant performance in Qualifier 1 against Punjab Kings.
“This is the result of finishing in the top two. It has been 18 years for Kohli. After Bhuvi’s over, he was told the bowlers to bowl slightly fuller deliveries. Rajat Patidar has been impressive as a captain. It looks like we could see a new IPL champion this year,” Raina said on Star Sports.
Raina praised Kohli’s leadership abilities, highlighting how he guided the bowlers even without the captaincy. He also spoke about Kohli’s remarkable consistency throughout his 18-year career.
“He has been involved in 18 years of hard work, and this marks the 18th season of the IPL. RCB fans are eagerly awaiting the IPL trophy at Chinnaswamy. Honestly, I can’t even tell who was the captain against Punjab Kings,” he added.
Kohli scored 12 runs against Punjab Kings, but he has been a standout player for RCB this season. He has amassed more than 614 runs at a strike rate of 146.53, which includes eight half-centuries.
Meanwhile, Josh Hazlewood’s return proved crucial for RCB, as he played a key role with figures of 3-21. Bengaluru dismissed Punjab for just 101 runs and chased down the target in 10 overs at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh.
Punjab will have another opportunity to book their place in the final on June 3, where they will face Mumbai Indians.