Virat Kohli remains the defining heartbeat of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, with no one in IPL history having spent as many seasons with a single franchise as he has. Over 19 years, the right-hander’s commitment to RCB has been a standout feature—particularly in seasons when the side came up just short of lifting the trophy. That prolonged wait finally ended last season, and the raw feeling of the title win captured what the moment meant not only for the club, but for Kohli personally. Even as RCB look to defend the crown, the same intensity continues to shape their identity, with Kohli embracing the senior-pro leadership role while still steering the batting unit and topping their run charts in the title defence campaign.
Kohli’s loyalty and the hunger to win
Throughout the season, multiple RCB players spoke openly about wanting to earn the IPL trophy for Kohli. The message was consistent: they recognised the dedication and passion he has shown across years, and they wanted their success to reflect his standards as well. When the final was won, Kohli’s reaction—dropping to his knees in tears as his team surged in to celebrate—summed up the weight of the achievement.
This year, that same drive is still visible. Kohli has taken to the responsibilities that come with experience, setting the tone with his approach and continuing to lead from the front with the bat as RCB attempt to make the title win last.
Mo Bobat on why RCB can’t treat Kohli’s runs lightly
RCB Director of Cricket Mo Bobat has underlined how Kohli’s value goes well beyond statistics. Bobat stressed that the franchise must recognise the consistency and long-term impact Kohli brings, especially after yet another dominant season where Kohli again crossed the 500-run mark.
- Bobat said RCB should not take Kohli’s performances for granted, noting that Kohli has once again gone past 500 runs in an IPL season.
- He added that if Kohli were not there, the gap would have to be covered with something in the range of 500 to 700 runs each year.
But Bobat’s praise wasn’t limited to run-scoring. He highlighted the energy Kohli brings to the setup and the intensity that seems to elevate standards around him. Bobat described Kohli as someone whose competitive mindset sits “off the charts,” even from a group that already expects high levels of commitment.
- He pointed to Kohli’s intensity as the quality he admires most, saying Kohli’s drive is stronger than even his own.
- He also emphasised that Kohli contributes multiple dimensions beyond runs—an atmosphere-building presence that lifts the entire environment.
Leadership after stepping down as captain
Kohli stepped down as RCB captain after the 2021 season, yet his role within the team has remained influential. Since then, he has backed former captain Faf du Plessis and, more recently, current captain Rajat Patidar—supporting them while ensuring he does not overtake their authority.
Despite his stature and the influence he clearly holds inside the franchise, Kohli has continued to give both leaders space to operate and make decisions in their own way. At the same time, he remains a steady presence in the background, offering guidance and support when needed.
In Bobat’s view, Kohli’s impact on team culture is built on exceptionally high expectations. He said Kohli’s standards align with the values held by the broader leadership group, shaping how the team practices, prepares, plays, and even carries itself socially as a unit.
- Bobat credited Kohli’s high standards, leadership presence, and relentless professionalism for influencing the dressing-room environment on and off the field.
- He said those standards match the approach of himself and Andy, extending to training routines, match preparation, on-field execution, and how the group conducts itself together.
- Bobat added that Kohli acts as a leader in multiple ways and remains one of the strongest influences shaping the overall surroundings.
As RCB continue their title defence campaign, the core story remains unchanged: Kohli’s loyalty, intensity, and leadership are still central to how the franchise wants to play, and why they believe they can stay on top.
