News India Live, Digital Desk: Only a few days are left for the start of IPL 2026 and defending champion Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is ready to retain its title. Meanwhile, ‘Mr. 360′ AB de Villiers has given a big statement regarding his former teammate Virat Kohli. He said that even though Virat has been away from cricket for some time, there can never be any lack in his preparation. Key points of de Villiers’ statement: Best work ethic: De Villiers said in a conversation with ‘JioStar’, “Virat’s work ethic is the best I have seen so far in my life. He will never come to the tournament undercooked. If he does not play well, it is only because of form or technique. It could be due to a mistake, not due to lack of preparation.” Heartbeat of RCB: Describing Virat as the ‘heartbeat’ of the team, he said that he inspires the youth not only with his runs but also with his energy and presence. Only Virat’s presence gives the team the confidence that they can win the trophy again. Pressure will be less: De Villiers expressed happiness that now the entire responsibility is not on Virat alone. He said that last year (IPL 2025), players like Rajat Patidar, Liam Livingstone and Jitesh Sharma made great contributions, due to which Virat will now be able to play more freely. Virat Kohli in IPL 2026: What is special? Title defense: RCB won its first IPL title in 2025 after a wait of 18 years. Now Virat and his team are eyeing to win ‘back-to-back’ titles. Mega-record of 9000 runs: Virat Kohli is on the threshold of becoming the first player to score 9,000 runs in IPL history. Currently, he has 8,661 runs in 267 matches. New avatar: Former spinner Anil Kumble has also hinted that this season Virat can be seen with some new shots (like scoop or reverse scoop), which he has learned from De Villiers.