Virat Kohli’s identity as an RCB player is inseparable from Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s story. It’s the only IPL franchise Kohli has represented, and since the time RCB entered the league, his fortunes have often run parallel with theirs—at moments bringing joy, and at others delivering disappointment. But the last two seasons have shifted that narrative dramatically. After an 18-year wait, RCB and Kohli finally tasted IPL title success in 2025, and on Sunday they captured that champions’ feeling again, with Kohli playing the starring role in the final against Gujarat Titans.
RCB’s title script: Kohli’s finishing act in the final
In the championship match versus GT, Kohli delivered under pressure despite cramps, taking charge during the chase of 156. He remained unbeaten on 75* while producing his fastest-ever IPL half-century—reaching the milestone in just 25 deliveries. With Kohli holding firm, RCB completed the chase in 18 overs, reaching the target with a clinical run-rate after working through the challenge of GT’s bowling.
- RCB chased a 156-run target in 18 overs
- Kohli finished unbeaten on 75* despite cramps
- Kohli struck his quickest IPL fifty, off 25 balls
From 62/0 to a wobble: how Kohli steadied the chase
RCB began brightly, moving to 62/0 in 4.2 overs with Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer in rhythm. The opening partnership was flowing, including a contribution of 32 off 16 balls from Iyer alongside Kohli’s control. Then the momentum dipped: after starting at 62/0, RCB slipped to 63/2 by 5.1 overs. Even with the quick wickets, Kohli’s composure did not break—he kept the chase on track as the innings tightened.
What Iyer saw up close: intensity, method and mental aura
Venkatesh Iyer, who witnessed Kohli’s impact throughout the season—first from within the RCB setup and later as Kohli’s opening partner in the closing matches including the final—shared why Kohli stands out. In an exclusive conversation, Iyer described Kohli’s approach as something that lifts the energy of the entire group, insisting teammates can’t afford to be casual while sharing the field with him.
- Iyer said Kohli “does not want to see his team down,” and that mindset lifts the whole dressing room
- He added that playing alongside Kohli changes how others carry themselves—there’s no room for sloppiness
- Iyer emphasized that even after achieving so much and being regarded as a legend, Kohli still shows intense hunger
Kohli’s presence creates belief
Iyer also pointed to Kohli’s ability to bring confidence during tough phases of a chase. He stressed that when quick wickets fall, the team stays calm because they know Kohli is still there. In Iyer’s view, Kohli’s presence becomes a mental contest before it even turns into one with the bat and ball.
- Iyer said RCB stayed calm after losing a couple of quick wickets because Virat was on the field
- He described Kohli’s aura as something that forces the opposition to play a mental battle
- Iyer linked the calm to the belief in Kohli’s skill and experience, built through years of hard work
A clear method behind the intensity
Further, Iyer explained that Kohli’s preparation is structured rather than instinctive. He said Kohli’s practice has a method, and that the way he approaches the game is defined by high energy consistently. Iyer also highlighted that Kohli’s tactical nuance is something players can learn from, noting that while they may not talk much during batting, he still absorbs a great deal from Kohli’s way of thinking.
- Iyer said Kohli’s approach is “a method,” not something that arrives naturally
- He described Kohli’s practice and game plan as systematic, with high energy at all times
- Iyer said Kohli’s tactical nuances are worth learning, even though there isn’t much conversation at the crease
Learning the small things: clarity, even in defence
On what keeps Kohli’s game so educational for those around him, Iyer pointed to the day-to-day lessons. He said it’s inspiring for anyone watching and wanting to pick up something new. For Iyer, the key lies in the smaller details—tactical adjustments and understanding what bowlers are likely to bring. He concluded by quoting Kohli’s broader message: be clear about the plan, including when the best option is to defend, because clarity itself does half the work.
- Iyer called Kohli “inspirational” day after day for anyone wanting to learn
- He said the value is in the little things—tactical nuances and reading what bowlers will attempt
- Iyer quoted Kohli’s message: “Be clear in what you want to do, even if it’s defence. If you are clear about what you want to do, that’s half the job done.”
