Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has dropped significant hints about his ambition to continue playing competitive cricket until 2027, marking a potential 20-year journey with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Retained by the franchise for an impressive Rs 21 crore, Kohli’s unwavering commitment to RCB remains unshaken as he aims to secure the elusive IPL title for the franchise.
Kohli’s Commitment to RCB
The 36-year-old, who has represented RCB since the IPL’s inception in 2008, shared his thoughts in an interview on RCB’s ‘Bold Diaries.’ Reflecting on his journey, Kohli said, “At the end of this cycle, it is going to be 20 years that I am going to be playing for RCB. That in itself is a very, very special feeling.” Acknowledging his strong bond with the franchise and its fans, he expressed his excitement for the upcoming IPL cycle, emphasizing his goal of winning the coveted IPL trophy.
“I am super excited, as everyone knows what RCB means to me. It’s been a very, very special relationship over so many years, which continues to grow stronger,” Kohli said. With over 8,000 runs in the IPL at a strike rate of 131.97, including eight hundreds and 55 fifties, Kohli remains one of the most prolific players in the league.
RCB head coach Andy Flower also commented on Kohli’s retention, calling it a crucial move for the franchise’s success. “Virat’s retention won’t come as much of a surprise to anyone in India. He is and will be a key to RCB’s success in the future,” Flower said, adding that Kohli’s leadership was instrumental in propelling RCB into the playoffs last season.