IPL 2022 | AB backs his closest companion; says Kohli need clear mind, fresh energy

Virat Kohli's performance in Indian premier League (IPL) includes 186 runs in 10 innings inclusive of two golden ducks, thus far. He has shown hindsights of returning back to his form after scoring his first half-century of the season when the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) locked horns with the Gujarat Titans (GT) on match 43.

The half-century came at the expense of the team but Kohli's 53-ball 58 did lit up all his admirers. 

In the ongoing IPL 2022, the former RCB captain has been struggling to score runs, but the supporters now believe that the knock against Hardik Pandya-led unit would amplify his confidence as the tournament enters its business end.

Former teammate and his closest companion, AB de Villiers expressed his views on Kohli’s form. The former Protea stated that one doesn’t become a bad player all of a sudden. A clear mind and fresh energy is required to battle such rough patches.

“You do not become a bad player overnight. Virat would know it and I know it. I think it's the way you think and set your mind. I cannot put a percentage to it but it is the mind and the power of mind which is the main battle. You need a clear mind and some fresh energy whenever you play and then you can find a way out of a hole,” de Villiers said.

The South African batter also emphasised that Kohli is just a few knocks away from good form.

“As a batsman you are only one or two bad knocks away from bad form. If it keeps coming at you it is difficult to bounce back from it,” The Protea added.

Bangalore have won 5 games and lost 5 five so far and has accumulated 10 points in 10 games. Their next fixture is against Chennai Super Kings on May 4, 2022.