De Villiers backs balanced RCB to break IPL duck

NEW DELHI - Team balance and Virat Kohlis reassuring presence in the top order have convinced AB de Villiers that his former club Royal Challengers Bengaluru can win their maiden Indian Premier League title this year.

One of the leagues most glamorous sides often boasting some of the most explosive batters in the world, RCB made three finals but fell short on each occasion to remain an IPL under-achiever.

They will enter their 18th season under a new captain, Rajat Patidar, while Englishman Phil Salt will be Kohlis opening partner.

I really think they made some incredibly good moves in the (player) auction, De Villiers, who spent 11 seasons with RCB, told an online press conference on Tuesday.

Its an incredibly good, balanced team.

Look at the batting lineup - its pure power, then a mix of power and control.

I do feel this squad has got what it takes to go all the way.

Liam Livingstone, Jacob Bethell and Tim David beef up RCBs middle order while Australias Josh Hazlewood will combine with the crafty Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the pace department.

De Villiers said Kohli had been subject of unnecessary criticism over his strike-rate and said the veteran batter had plenty to offer.

He might have called retirement on T20 internationals but I feel theres plenty left in the tank for Virat, especially with that batting lineup RCB hes got this season, the South African said.

I dont think Virat is going to feel a lot of pressure. He can just really go out there and play what he sees in front of him, and that is when Virat is at his absolute best when he plays the situation.

Salts aggression will take the pressure off Kohli and let him control the innings as the teams batting captain, De