Virat Kohli on RCB, Captaincy and Cricketing Legacy | IPL 2025 Exclusive

Virat Kohli Opens Up on Life, RCB, Leadership, and the Journey Beyond Trophies

In the ever-evolving theatre of Indian cricket, few voices command the quiet intensity and unwavering attention that Virat Kohli does. Known for his relentless drive and emotional connection with the game, Kohli recently offered rare insight into his cricketing journey, his bond with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and the shifts in mindset that have shaped him as a player and a person.

A Deep Bond with RCB That Transcends Silverware

"This is my moment," Kohli says, reflecting on his enduring relationship with RCB. For him, what matters more than any trophy is the depth of connection and mutual respect built over years. "Whether we win or don't win, it's fine," he insists. The former RCB captain highlights that the affection he receives from fans transcends tangible success. "The love I've received from the fans, no trophy can come close to that," he affirms. It’s a sentiment that underscores his emotional attachment to the franchise, one rooted not in titles but in legacy.

Why Stepping Away Was Necessary

Kohli's decision to relinquish captaincy across formats was not born of defeat, but necessity. Leading India and RCB simultaneously for close to a decade took its toll. "There was just too much happening in my career. I was exposed to scrutiny 24x7. It got too much in the end," he shares. He explains that stepping down was about finding a space of personal happiness a chance to play cricket free from the constant gaze of expectations. It was a move to protect his peace and passion.

Early Mentorship: Boucher, Kirsten, and Dhoni

Looking back, Kohli credits early mentors who shaped his rise. Mark Boucher, then part of RCB, identified flaws in Kohli's technique that others overlooked. "He told me, 'You need to work on the short ball, or no one will give you a chance in international cricket,'" Kohli remembers. That tough love, he says, was a turning point.

In the Indian dressing room, Gary Kirsten and MS Dhoni gave him clarity and belief. "They told me we are backing you at number three. Your energy and intent is what we value," he says. This support gave Kohli a strong platform to trust his instincts, even when he wasn't seen as a match-winner yet.

The Illusion of Comfort and the Reality of Fear

Despite his achievements, Kohli doesn't shy away from admitting vulnerability. "When you're young, you think things will get easier after a certain point, but it never does," he explains. The fear of failure never fades, nor should it, he believes. It's this fear that keeps players grounded and present. Kohli even tells younger players, "If your mindset is better than mine today, you'll outperform me—no matter how many matches I’ve played."

ODI Cricket and the Physical Demands

Kohli's enduring love for ODI cricket remains strong. He sees it as the format that demands the most well-rounded skill set. "You need patience, explosion, stamina, and intensity over 50 overs," he explains. It’s this complexity that fuels his dedication to staying physically prepared. From sleep and diet to drills and fielding effort, Kohli believes success in ODI cricket is built in the background, not just in the spotlight.

New Age Players and Evolving Techniques

Kohli acknowledges that modern cricket requires adaptation. He talks about how his generation grew up with a focus on strike rotation and patience, while today's players are naturally explosive. "You have to evolve," he says, "and learn from each other's games to become a complete cricketer." It’s a philosophy that has kept him relevant in an era of constant innovation.

The RCB Legacy and a Challenger Spirit

Royal Challengers Bengaluru, for Kohli, is not just a franchise it's a family. RCB’s journey, marked by dramatic highs and lows, aligns perfectly with Kohli’s growth as a person. Whether it was guiding the team to three IPL finals, or their dramatic playoff push in 2024 by winning six out of six games when all odds were against them, Kohli has been at the heart of it all.

RCB’s reach has also extended beyond cricket. From the successful RCB Bar & Café to wellness brand RCB Hustle, and now a WPL title under their belt, the brand reflects Kohli’s ethos: bold, relentless, and rooted in passion.

A Legacy Written in Grit, Not Just Stats

Kohli's words are a reminder that cricket, at its best, is not just about trophies or scoreboards. It's about personal truth, the ability to evolve, and the stories players leave behind. For Kohli, the journey continues, unburdened by expectations, and anchored in purpose.

He is no longer just a batter or a captain; he is the embodiment of resilience, still leading by example quietly, passionately, and on his own terms.