‘He’ll Be Unbearable’: Hussain and Atherton on Why They Don’t Want RCB to Win IPL 2025
In a thrilling turn of events, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), under the dynamic captaincy of Rajat Patidar, have stormed into the IPL 2025 final with a commanding 8-wicket victory over Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 at Mullanpur. They now await their opponent—either Punjab Kings or Mumbai Indians—for the grand finale at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 3. While fans are buzzing with excitement over RCB’s chance to clinch their maiden IPL title, former England captains Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton have added a humorous twist to the narrative, focusing on RCB’s batting coach Dinesh Karthik, popularly known as ‘DK’.
RCB’s journey to the final has been nothing short of inspirational. The franchise, which has been a perennial favorite but often fell short of the ultimate prize, seems to have found a new spark in IPL 2025. A key factor behind this transformation is the appointment of Dinesh Karthik as batting coach ahead of the season. Karthik, a veteran of Indian cricket with over 400 IPL matches under his belt, has brought a wealth of experience and tactical acumen to the dressing room. His impact is evident in the improved performances of RCB’s batting unit, with emerging stars like Jitesh Sharma crediting Karthik for refining their approach. After a league stage match against Lucknow Super Giants, Sharma remarked, “DK sir’s inputs have been invaluable. He’s helped me understand my game better and execute under pressure.”
However, it’s Karthik’s potential reaction to an RCB title triumph that stole the spotlight during a recent Sky Sports Podcast. Nasser Hussain, known for his sharp wit, couldn’t resist a playful jab at Karthik, saying, “RCB have got through to the finals. If they win that, DK is going to be unbearable. One season as coach and mentor, and he’s won it!” Not to be outdone, Michael Atherton doubled down with a cheeky comparison to football legend John Terry’s infamous trophy-lifting antics. “He’s unbearable at the best of times, and he’s going to be doubly unbearable. He’ll be like John Terry, at the front of the RCB trophy presentation, holding it there with Virat Kohli,” Atherton quipped, painting a vivid picture of Karthik basking in the glory.
Karthik, ever the sport, took the comments in stride and responded on social media platform X with a lighthearted message: “This podcast needs some young energy.” His witty comeback only added fuel to the banter, endearing him further to RCB’s passionate fanbase. Karthik’s deep connection with the franchise is well-documented. Having played for RCB during multiple stints in his illustrious IPL career, he understands the emotional rollercoaster that comes with representing the team. In a heartfelt video shared on RCB’s official handle, Karthik reflected on his bond with the club: “Being part of RCB is a very special feeling, purely because of the brand of cricket that we play, but also the fans that we have. It’s a journey that’s been filled with lots of highs and lows.”
He also spoke candidly about his decision to transition into a coaching role, driven by the elusive dream of bringing the IPL trophy to Bengaluru. “The trophy hasn’t reached the shores of Bangalore yet. If I could be part of that journey, why not? That was a big question in my mind. I know how close we were when I played. So here’s another opportunity for me as a coach,” Karthik added with a sense of purpose. His words resonate with the hopes of millions of RCB supporters who have waited 17 years to see their team lift the coveted title.
As the IPL 2025 final approaches, the spotlight is not just on RCB’s on-field performance but also on the potential celebrations that could follow. Will Dinesh Karthik get the chance to be ‘unbearable’ as Hussain and Atherton predict? Or will RCB’s wait for glory extend another year? One thing is certain: with a revitalized squad, a passionate coach, and a captain in fine form, RCB are primed to give their all at Ahmedabad. For now, the cricket world watches with bated breath—and a hint of humor—awaiting the outcome of this blockbuster finale.