Indian Premier League 2014: Virat Kohli talks up Royal Challengers Bangalore's chances
Royal Challengers Bangalore captain Virat Kohli is positive that his side will do much better in this season of the Indian Premier League, given the quality of players in his side.
Critics might say that the Indian Premier League is adding to the players' burden in a packed international calendar but Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli today said the T20 event actually helps them relax and enjoy themselves.
"The more we enjoy cricket, it will be that much better in the IPL. In the IPL there is a lot of enjoyment for players. Everybody is relaxed coming from the international schedule. There is a good atmosphere and we will try to utilise it," said the 25-year-old at the team's jersey launch event. (Must read: Virat Kohli meets 'ladylove' Anushka Sharma ahead of new IPL season)
Kohli, on a high after being named the player of the tournament in the recently-concluded ICC World Twenty20, said he is aiming to take RCB to its maiden IPL title this season. (Check this out: Kohli, Anushka seen walking hand-in-hand in New Zealand)
"This time around we will hope to go a few more steps ahead and actually get that trophy. We have added a few more quality players in the side and I am sure we will come out with flying colours," he said. "We try every year to win and we have a strong team. We will try to win the trophy because we have got a good combination this time and we will try to utilise it," he added.
Royal Challengers Bangalore had got off to a disastrous start in the first edition of the Indian Premier League before a complete revival saw them make it to the final in 2009 in South Africa. They went down to Deccan Chargers in the final, but the second season marked the arrival of one of the more successful IPL sides.
RCB's failure to so far win the trophy has been an enigma, given the talent in the side - Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers and Kohli himself form a potent batting line-up and with a host of other proven performers, the Vijay Mallya-owned side cannot be far away from their maiden triumph.
Bangalore were on a roll last year as well but they were found wanting in the later stages of the tournament, finishing fifth with nine wins and seven losses from 16 games.
(With inputs from PTI)