Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has forecasted a successful IPL season for Royal Challengers Bangalore's star player Virat Kohli and Mumbai Indians' dynamic opener Rohit Sharma in the 18th edition of the tournament. Both players will enter the competition with heightened confidence following their victory in the Champions Trophy with the Indian team, where they played pivotal roles in securing the prestigious ICC trophy after a 12-year gap.

Kohli had a remarkable IPL 2024, finishing as the top scorer with the Orange Cap, accumulating 741 runs at an average of 61.75 and an impressive strike rate of 154.69. Conversely, Rohit's performance in recent seasons has not met his usual high standards, with his last season exceeding 450 runs occurring back in IPL 2016. Last season, the former MI captain scored 417 runs at an average of 32.08, achieving only two scores above 50.

Uthappa, who has previously represented both MI and RCB, expressed confidence that these two elite batsmen will aggressively challenge opposing bowlers in the upcoming season.

"I believe they will have no trouble at all in coming out and dominating the bowlers," Uthappa remarked on his YouTube channel.

The former Orange Cap winner is certain that Kohli will enjoy another fruitful season with the bat.

"Virat is in excellent form. He knows the conditions in Bangalore well, and he consistently excels there," he added.

“In the recent past, Rohit Sharma hasn't lived up to his potential”

RCB will kick off their season by facing the reigning champions, Kolkata Knight Riders, on Saturday.

Uthappa acknowledged that Rohit has struggled to demonstrate his full capabilities in recent seasons; however, he believes that IPL 2025 could be one of Rohit's standout years.

"Recently, Rohit has not fully realized his potential as the exceptionally talented batter he is in the IPL. Nevertheless, it seems that circumstances are favouring him at this moment. Therefore, I wouldn't be surprised if he has one of his finest seasons in the IPL," Uthappa remarked.

Rohit will take the field in the Mumbai Indians' opening match of the season against their long-time rivals, Chennai Super Kings, on Sunday at Chepauk.

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