India, May 30 -- Four-time IPL-winning star Suresh Raina asserted that a new champion will be crowned in the ongoing season, hinting at Royal Challengers Bengaluru to win their maiden title. Raina, who played a pivotal role in CSK's first four title triumphs, predicted that the number 18 connection of Virat Kohli and this edition might work. Under new skipper Rajat Patidar, RCB have reached the IPL final after nine years and looked favourites to end their title drought after a dominating performance in the Qualifier 1 against Punjab Kings.

Raina, currently serving as a commentator this season, was impressed by how Kohli displayed leadership qualities-offering valuable input to bowlers and guiding them, even without the captain's armband....