Former South African cricketer and Royal Challengers Bangaluru player, AB de Villiers, recently shared an interesting anecdote about a conversation with Virat Kohli. AB revealed that Kohli advised him not to use the popular RCB chant “Ee sala cup namde,” which means “This year the cup will be ours.” The chant has been a rallying cry for RCB fans but has yet to bring an IPL title to the team in their 17-year history.
Message from Virat Kohli
AB de Villiers, who played 11 seasons for RCB from 2011 to 2021, stated on the Star Sports Press Room show, “I said ‘Ee sala cup namde’ somewhere and immediately got a text from Virat to not use it anymore. If RCB do manage to end their trophy drought this season, I will also come to celebrate with them.” This shows the deep connection and passion both AB and Kohli share with the team and its fanbase.
RCB’s close calls and jinx in IPL history
RCB has come close to winning the IPL title three times, reaching the finals in 2009, 2011, and 2016. Each time, they fell short. The 2016 season was particularly memorable when Virat Kohli scored a record-breaking 973 runs. In the final that year, RCB seemed set for victory with a strong start from Chris Gayle and Kohli, only to collapse under pressure and finish at 200/7, just short of the target.
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A new era and high hopes
As RCB rebuilds their squad for the new season, they look forward to a fresh start under the leadership of Rajat Patidar. Fans eagerly hope that “Ee sala cup namde” will soon become “Ee sala cup namdu,” meaning “This year the cup is ours.” With renewed energy and determination, both the team and its loyal supporters are ready for what promises to be an exciting IPL season.
