Talismanic batters Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers, known for their memorable partnerships at Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), share a strong off-field camaraderie. The recent hint from the South African legend suggests that fans might witness Kohli bidding adieu to the game in South Africa, during the forthcoming multi-format series.
Kohli, informing selectors of his absence from the white-ball leg but affirming his availability for the Test matches in South Africa, set the stage for speculation about a potential farewell stint. De Villiers, the brand ambassador of SA20, hinted at the possibility of Kohli playing a final season in the cash-rich league before retiring from the game.
“I think it would be very possible to get Virat over here. Maybe for his final season, we’ll give him a wonderful farewell for the end of his career,” de Villiers mentioned in an interview with One Cricket, emphasizing the prospect of Kohli gracing the league for a final hurrah.
While the discussion about Kohli’s future in the T20 format in South Africa remains speculative, de Villiers admitted to conversations with former Indian cricketers Robin Uthappa and RP Singh regarding a potential reunion in the South African T20 arena.
“I haven’t discussed it with any players except for Robin Uthappa and RP Singh. Not so long ago, we did some work together and I told them it would be great to see them over there,” shared the 39-year-old, hinting at a broader spectrum of potential collaborations beyond Kohli.
Despite numerous reports hinting at his return to RCB in a coaching capacity, de Villiers remains open to the possibility of donning the RCB colors again. Expressing his heartfelt connection with the team and its fans, he expressed his gratitude and hope for a potential comeback in the future.
“I hope so. I mean, my heart is with the RCB. I’ve played there for many, many years. I’ve got a very good connection with the fans of Bangalore, and I’ll always be appreciative for all the support and love over the years. I can’t guarantee anything, but I would absolutely love to see myself in the RCB colors again in the future,” de Villiers mentioned in a recent interview with India Today, keeping the door open for a potential reunion with RCB.
