IPL 2024: When RCB legend AB de Villiers learned about wife's secret love for KKR, Shah Rukh Khan

IPL 2024 is set to kick off on Friday (March 22) as the tournament opener is being played between southern rivals Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

RCB and CSK are two of the most popular franchises in the lucrative domestic T20 cricket league, featuring 10 teams, but with contrasting fates. While RCB are yet to lay their hands on the elusive IPL trophy, CSK have lifted the silverware five times, which is joint-most with Mumbai Indians.

The buzz about the IPL 2024 reaching its crescendo as teams and their passionate fans are drawing the battle lines ahead of the tournament opener and backing themselves and their teams to win the trophy.

Ahead of the tournament, JioCinema's IPL experts - AB de Villiers, Brett Lee, and Aakash Chopra - participated in a session titled "Cricket Insiders" at the News18 Rising Bharat Summit. The discussion revolved around RCB's prospects in the upcoming season, fueled by the recent WPL 2024 win by their women's team, and the transformative experience JioCinema offers fans.

AB de Villiers Reveals A Surprise From Wife

In a lighthearted moment, de Villiers - one of the IPL legends who enjoys immense popularity in India - revealed a surprising discovery about his wife, Danielle Swart, during a JioCinema Hangout session. The former South Africa star said, "There's a Hangout feature on JioCinema, and I was on the show with my wife.

"While there, I learned something new about her! Apparently, when RCB played against KKR during my time with the team, she actually rooted for KKR!" De Villiers admitted to being playfully shocked, learning that his wife's favourite is none other than Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders.

Can RCB Finally Break Through in IPL 2024?

Despite the lighthearted exchange, the focus soon shifted to RCB's IPL aspirations. De Villiers acknowledged their potential but emphasized the unpredictable nature of cricket. "They (RCB) definitely look like contenders," De Villiers, the RCB Hall Of Famer, said.

"However, sports can be funny, and cricket is anything but predictable. Patience is key. Hopefully, with the women's team winning the WPL trophy, there's a chance for a domino effect, leading to back-to-back wins for RCB. They've consistently delivered strong performances, reaching the finals three times. While they haven't been fortunate enough to win, the legacy built by senior players is undeniable. Hopefully, that will propel them to victory this year."

RCB Has a Good Shot at IPL 2024 Trophy: Experts

Brett Lee, another JioCinema expert, echoed de Villiers' sentiment, expressing optimism about RCB's chances. "Honestly, I believe they have a very good chance this year," he said. "Arguably, they've had one of the best sides for years, but luck hasn't been on their side. Maybe the change in jersey and branding will usher in their year."

Experts Hail JioCinema For Making Cricket Accessible

Aakash Chopra, the third JioCinema expert, highlighted the platform's role in democratising cricket viewership. "JioCinema has made cricket accessible to everyone, offering free viewing," he said.

"There are countries where cricket isn't readily available. Without access, there's no encouragement to play the game. For instance, the recent India-England Test series was streamed on everyone's mobiles, allowing fans to watch anywhere. While we want fans in stadiums, attracting them also involves making them fall in love with different formats. As broadcasters, JioCinema holds the responsibility to make cricket entertaining, innovative, and accessible."