'Virat Kohli's year to lift trophy...' - Suresh Raina makes stunning claim on RCB

As the IPL 2025 gears up for its final phase, former Indian batter Suresh Raina has backed the in-form Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to finally end their 18-year title drought next month. As the RCB gears up for a crucial clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders on Saturday (May 17), Raina said that the franchise can lift the IPL trophy under Rajat Patidar this season.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru is yet to lift the coveted trophy despite having world-class players in their ranks over the years in the tournament, and the cricket world never tires of mocking the team for its trophyless cabinet.

Suresh Raina backs RCB to finally lift the IPL trophy

However, the Bengaluru-based franchise turned the tide with a transformed approach in the IPL 2025, where their bowling unit, once a consistently weak link, has become a lethal force, as Raina mentioned how they even managed to defend modest scores of 150 and 136 at the batting paradise of M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

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The former Chennai Super Kings batter was also really impressed with RCB’s new captain Rajat Patidar’s fearless leadership, especially after doing the unthinkable. Notably, RCB crushed CSK not once but twice this season, including a dominant win at their fortress, Chepauk.

Suresh Raina said on Star Sports Press Room, “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.”

This might finally be Virat Kohli's year to lift the trophy: Suresh Raina

Raina also highlighted that there is belief, hunger, and unity in the RCB dressing room that will help them to go all the way to their ultimate goal. The former Indian batter further noted, “The dressing room is positive, and these are signs of a team that can go all the way.”

Well, the former CSK icon admitted that other teams like Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Titans, and Punjab Kings are doing well and are among the favorites to win the IPL 2025, but he believes that this could finally be the season where RCB ends their nearly two-decade-long wait for the trophy.

Raina signed off by saying, “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.”

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Rajat Patidar recovered from a hand injury, ready to lead RCB against KKR

Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bengaluru has been on a roll in the IPL 2025. With eight wins and just three defeats, they currently sit second on the points table with 16 points. If they beat KKR on Saturday, they will officially book their spot in the playoffs.

On the other hand, Rajat Patidar recovered from a finger injury in his right hand, and he even batted in the nets for around 30 minutes without any discomfort.

Team director Mo Bobat said, “Patidar had an injury to his hand. He's been building up ever so slowly. For him personally, probably the disruption gave him a few more days just to get through some of that early healing, for the swelling to go down, and to get used to picking up [the bat] again. He's practiced the last few days, and he's going well.”