Kane Williamson Predicts Virat Kohli's Major Influence in IPL 2025

Virat Kohli's Impact on RCB in IPL 2025

Virat Kohli may have adjusted his batting style over the years, yet former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson firmly believes that the star player will significantly influence the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's performance in IPL 2025.

Kohli has recently showcased flashes of his former brilliance during the Champions Trophy and is set to lead the RCB batting lineup from the top order once again.

The 36-year-old is scheduled to take the field for RCB against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens this Saturday.

Williamson expressed confidence in Kohli's potential impact, stating, 'There’s no doubt he will make a significant contribution, as he has in nearly every season of this tournament. His motivation to secure a title with RCB is evident, and I believe they will be strong contenders this season.'

Having gone unsold in the previous IPL auction, Williamson noted that Kohli's evolving approach to the game will not diminish his batting prowess.

'It’s fascinating to see how players transition through various stages of their careers. Kohli has been around for many years, and while his style may adapt slightly, his hunger and passion remain intact, as evidenced by his recent performances,' he remarked.

Williamson expressed some skepticism regarding the impact of the saliva ban on the white ball, yet he hopes it will provide bowlers with some advantages.

'Throughout my experience in white ball cricket, it has always been challenging to maintain the shine on the white ball. Whether the removal of the saliva ban will have a significant effect remains to be seen. Any assistance in shining the ball could be beneficial,' he said.

'If the ball swings more, it will certainly enhance the role of seam and swing bowlers. Given the generally favorable batting conditions in the IPL, with smaller boundaries, any additional swing could greatly benefit the competition,' added Williamson, who serves as a JioStar expert.

The BCCI has confirmed the continuation of the Impact Player rule for IPL 2025, and Williamson noted that the role of all-rounders might still be somewhat diminished.

'This rule does have an impact. The ability to select your team post-toss allows for strategic use of the Impact Player, shaping how teams approach the game. Most teams now have five frontline players and possibly a sixth option,' he explained.

'In T20 cricket, the number of balls faced by batsmen past the seventh position is quite low, indicating that while all-round options remain appealing, they may not hold the same significance as before.'

Nevertheless, Williamson acknowledged the positive aspects of the rule, stating, 'There are certainly benefits to the changes. Recent statistics show that run rates have increased overall.'