Virat Kohli's Legacy with Royal Challengers Bangalore: A Journey of Passion and Loyalty
As the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) approached, Virat Kohli made a heartfelt announcement: the 2021 season would be his last as the captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Having taken over the reins as the full-time captain in 2013, Kohli's leadership journey spanned 140 matches, with 66 wins and 70 losses. Despite stepping down as captain, Kohli reassured fans of his unwavering loyalty to RCB, declaring that he would always remain a part of the franchise. This commitment was evident when he was retained ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction for INR 15 crores.
Virat Kohli often hailed as the "Run Machine," has left an indelible mark on the cricketing world with his extraordinary talent and relentless hunger for big scores. His journey to stardom began as the captain of the Indian team that won the 2008 ICC U19 Cricket World Cup. Since then, there has been no looking back for "King Kohli." Known for his aggressive and expressive demeanor on the field, Kohli's rise in cricket has been meteoric.
Inducted into the RCB squad in 2008, Kohli began leading the side in 2013. His phenomenal performance in 2016, where he topped the run-scorers list and donned the Orange Cap, is a testament to his batting prowess. Until 2022, he was the highest-paid cricketer in the IPL and was the first player to be retained by his franchise ahead of the IPL 2018 Player Auction.
Batting & Fielding Stats
Career Highlights
- Matches: 252
- Not Outs: 37
- Runs: 8004
- Highest Score: 113
- Average: 38.67
- Balls Faced: 6065
- Strike Rate: 131.97
- Centuries: 8
- Fifties: 55
- Fours: 705
- Sixes: 272
- Catches: 115
Notable Seasons
| Year | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries | Fifties |
| 2024 | 15 | 741 | 61.75 | 154.70 | 1 | 5 |
| 2023 | 14 | 639 | 53.25 | 139.82 | 2 | 6 |
| 2022 | 16 | 341 | 22.73 | 115.99 | 0 | 2 |
| 2021 | 15 | 405 | 28.92 | 119.46 | 0 | 3 |
| 2016 | 16 | 973 | 81.08 | 152.03 | 4 | 7 |
Bowling Stats
- Career: 252 matches, 251 balls, 368 runs, 4 wickets, best bowling 2/25, average 92.00, economy 8.80, strike rate 62.75
Conclusion
Virat Kohli's tenure with RCB has been marked by his exceptional batting, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the franchise. As he steps down from his captaincy role, his legacy continues to inspire and excite fans and aspiring cricketers alike. His journey, filled with remarkable achievements and a steadfast loyalty to RCB, ensures that his name will always be synonymous with the spirit and passion of the IPL.