No matter what additions they have had in their squad, Royal Challengers Bangalore have generally flattered to deceive in the IPL.

Last year, though, was a departure from their sloppy showing in the previous editions, when they made the playoffs before losing in the Eliminator. But the likes of Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj and Navdeep Saini delivering for India in trying circumstances has instilled a good deal of confidence in captain Virat Kohli, who feels his team can certainly go the distance this year.

“From a personal experience, I can vouch for the fact that when you do well for the national team, it’s always exciting to come to the IPL and really be slotted in your role. That’s what I came to do as a youngster, bringing the confidence I got at the international level back into the IPL set-up, so yes, watching guys like Saini, Washy and Siraj coming to their own is great,” Kohli said during an online media interaction with AB de Villiers and RCB’s star acquisition Glenn Maxwell alongside him.

“We obviously want them to show their personality and confidence on the field for RCB as well. That way we can pull together a stronger team and move in the right direction.

“So yeah, it’s very exciting from that point of view. Our youngsters are more confident and experienced, and the opponents know that these guys can make an impact in any situation which augurs really well for us.”

With no home advantage on this occasion as well, Kohli feels that aspect would lead to a more competitive IPL, like it was in 2020. “Such are the times we’re in right now.

“The good thing is to be back in India and one more positive like last year is no home advantage to teams. Playing in set venues with four teams nullify all the home advantage and bring in more competitiveness,” Kohli emphasised.

Maxwell’s goal

“Imparting wisdom” to some of the young, inexperienced players in the squad and picking up stuff from Kohli and De Villiers during training sessions are what Maxwell, signed at Rs 14.25 crore in the auction this February, would be looking to.

“I feel I can bring some energy to the team... Would always try and learn as much from two of the best players in the side as to how they go about their business in training and try and impart wisdom to some of the young kids as well,” the dashing Australia middle-order batsman said.

De Villiers, too, is bullish on RCB having an even better season this time around.

“We have a bunch of talented players who have come in and I’m very excited to play with some guys that I’ve seen and followed for quite a few years,” the former South Africa captain said.