AB de Villiers has revealed he once asked Virat Kohli to try playing a season without bringing too much emotion into it, only to be met with a characteristic response from his long-time Royal Challengers Bengaluru teammate. Speaking ahead of RCB’s IPL 2025 final against Punjab Kings, de Villiers shared his thoughts on Kohli’s ever-passionate presence on the field, calling it both a strength and something he once hoped would change. “We have had this conversation many times before,” de Villiers told the media. “Why don't you try for a season and just get the emotion out of it, just to sort of relax a bit, ok? And I've told him before, and he said, it's not a bad idea, but it seems not to have worked out.” Watch: Jasprit Bumrah calms coach Jayawardene minutes before dismissing Washington Sundar Kohli, who recently announced his retirement from Test cricket, remains one of the most animated cricketers in the modern game, often seen celebrating wildly, arguing with opponents, or rallying his teammates with visible intensity. According to de Villiers, that passion is what makes Kohli who he is. “He doesn't listen to me,” he added. “So the thing is, I think it's a natural thing for him. He can't help but show that he cares and that's where it comes from. So, at the end of the day, it is one of his strengths. He's come to where he is in his career and in his life because of the person that he is, the fact that he wears his heart on his sleeve.” De Villiers admits he may have been wrong about calming Kohli down De Villiers, who formed one of the most iconic batting partnerships in IPL history alongside Kohli, reflected on how his view has changed over time. “I think I would like to see him as a more calm and composed player out there and I did speak to him about it, and I guess I was wrong,” he said. Kohli and de Villiers shared a deep bond during their years at RCB. Even after his retirement, de Villiers continues to support the franchise, often seen speaking about RCB in the media, supporting youngsters in the team. Also READ: Kane Williamson on Kohli's Test retirement: ‘oh gosh, there’s an end point’ This year, RCB have made it to their fourth IPL final and will face PBKS in the title clash. Kohli has been among the team’s standout performers, blending fiery intent with experience in the playoffs.