Former pacer Vinay Kumar inducted into RCB Hall of Fame

The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise paid a heartwarming tribute to former pacer Vinay Kumar by including him into their Hall of Fame.

The special ceremony took place during the RCB Unbox event ahead of the IPL 2024 season. Vinay Kumar joined the company of AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle, who were the first two inductees into the Hall of Fame during the previous season's Unbox event.

RCB started their Hall of Fame last season as a way to honour the legendary players who have represented the franchise over the years. The former South African batter and West Indian batter are the first two inductees given their immense contributions to RCB's journey in the IPL.

Also read: RCB women receive guard of honour from men's team at Chinnaswamy

Vinay Kumar joins AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle in the RCB Hall of Fame

In 2024, the Bangalore-based franchise chose to recognise Vinay Kumar's services by adding him into the prestigious Hall of Fame. The Indian fast bowler was an integral part of RCB's bowling unit for five seasons from 2008 to 2010 and 2012 to 2013.

Vinay Kumar joined RCB in 2008 and quickly became a vital cog in their pace attack. With his lively seam bowling and ability to strike at crucial junctures, he played a key role in RCB's performances for half a decade.

In his 105 IPL matches for RCB, Vinay snared 105 wickets at an economy rate of 8.39. His best bowling figures of 4/40 came against Chennai Super Kings in 2010. The 2013 season was his most prolific when he picked up 23 wickets.

The induction ceremony was an emotionally charged affair with RCB captain Faf du Plessis and star batter along with other team members felicitating Vinay. 

The RCB Unbox event, held at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, was not just about celebrating the upcoming IPL season but also about acknowledging the achievements of both the men's and women's teams.

The event witnessed the RCB men's team giving a Guard of Honour to the RCB Women's team, who were the winners of the Women's Premier League 2024 Trophy. During the Unboxing event, the franchise changed its name from Bangalore to Bengaluru.

Also read: Alan Walker creates musical anthem for RCB at Unbox event

In 2024's event featured performances by renowned artists like Brodha V and Raghu Dixit. Legendary Norwegian DJ and musician, Alan Walker, was also present at the special event and produced a special anthem for the Bengaluru-based franchise. RCB will be taking on CSK in the opening game of the tournament on March 22 in Chennai.