Former India cricketer Suresh Raina has backed Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to win the IPL 2025. RCB have been top notch in the season and won eight out of the 11 matches, suffering defeats in just three matches. They are placed second on the points table, with a foot in in the playoffs.

RCB are yet to win an IPL title. They played the final thrice, but came second every time. Raina feels IPL 2025 might be the year when RCB end the long wait.

"There are strong chances because Royal Challengers Bengaluru is playing in a different league this year. They've defended scores like 150 and 136 at Chinnaswamy, and their bowling unit has stepped up. The new captain has beaten Chennai Super Kings twice--once in Chennai and again at home, which speaks volumes," Raina said on Star Sports.

"The dressing room is positive, and these are signs of a team that can go all the way. Yes, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans, and Punjab Kings are also doing well, but this might finally be Virat's year to lift the trophy after 18 years," he added.

Vintage Virat Kohli On Display

Virat has played a huge role in RCB's success in IPL 2025. With 505 runs in 11 games, he is fourth on the list of most runs in the tournament. However, he is just five runs behind the table topper Suryakumar Yadav, who has 510 runs to his name. Kohli has been very consistent throughout the tournament, scoring seven fifties.

RCB Face KKR Challenge

RCB will take on KKR in a crucial game of IPL 2025. RCB need a win over KKR to boost hopes of finishing in the top two of the points table. However, there is rain predicted in Bengaluru and if the match is washed out, there could be a situation where RCB might lose the top two finish to PBKS or GT.

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