RCB Director Reveals Why Opponents Feared Virat Kohli in the IPL
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s team director, Mo Bobat, has confirmed that Virat Kohli is fully focused and competitive in IPL 2024, despite his recent retirement from Test cricket. Kohli, who scored an impressive 9,230 runs in 123 Tests, including 30 centuries, remains dedicated to helping RCB achieve success this season. Bobat emphasized Kohli’s ambition and the pride the franchise feels regarding his remarkable achievements in international cricket.
Kohli’s Commitment to RCB
Mo Bobat addressed the media during a pre-match press conference, highlighting Virat Kohli’s unwavering commitment to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Bobat stated, “The first thing to say is Virat’s business as usual, as he always is.” He noted that Kohli is well aware of the public’s attention on him but prefers to concentrate on his performance and the team’s success. Kohli’s competitive spirit remains intact, and he is determined to contribute significantly to RCB’s campaign this season.
Bobat expressed deep admiration for Kohli’s illustrious Test career, acknowledging his extraordinary accomplishments. “He should be incredibly proud of what he’s done as a Test player for India,” Bobat remarked. Kohli’s tenure, marked by nearly 10,000 runs and a win percentage of around 60% as captain, reflects his substantial impact on Indian cricket. The team director conveyed that the entire RCB franchise takes immense pride in what Kohli has achieved.
Memories from Kohli’s Test Career
Reflecting on Kohli’s Test performances, Bobat shared insights from his previous role within the English coaching setup in 2018. He recalled Kohli as a formidable opponent, stating, “He was someone you never wanted to play against.” Bobat highlighted Kohli’s remarkable performance during the 2018 England series, where he amassed 593 runs in five Tests, boasting an average close to 60. This period marked some of the most memorable moments in Test cricket, showcasing Kohli’s skill and determination.
Bobat reminisced about the thrilling contest between Kohli and famed bowler Jimmy Anderson, describing it as a battle of “two gladiators.” Such moments illustrate Kohli’s ability to deliver under pressure and create unforgettable experiences for fans and players alike. Bobat emphasized that these performances have left a lasting impact on cricket history.
Support from Fans and Future Plans
Mo Bobat expressed confidence in the unwavering support from fans at Chinnaswamy Stadium as the IPL season progresses. He anticipates that the crowd will show Kohli plenty of love when they see him play. “I’m sure the fans will show him lots of love this week when they see him again,” Bobat said. He reinforced that Kohli remains focused on his goals and continues to communicate with the team about their strategies moving forward.
While there have been social media calls for fans to wear white jerseys to honor Kohli’s Test career, Bobat indicated that such gestures would not significantly influence their performance on the field. He stated, “It’s not something we’ve thought about or talked about too much,” indicating that the team’s focus remains on their game rather than external distractions. The RCB management is committed to ensuring that Kohli and the rest of the squad maintain a competitive edge as they navigate through IPL 2024.
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