IPL 2024: RCB celebrate Virat Kohli's 16-year-long loyalty with franchise

Virat Kohli, the star Indian cricketer, has defined what loyalty means in cricket by remaining loyal to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for 16 years. From his early days as a talented cricketer to have led India's Under-19 team to World Cup glory in 2008, to his illustrious career and becoming a stalwart of the Indian cricket team, Kohli's journey has been nothing short of excellent.

Kohli's association with RCB began in 2008 when the then-19-year-old prodigy was drafted into the inaugural IPL auction. Since then, he has been an integral part of the RCB family, donning their iconic red and black jersey with pride. The batting maestro's journey with RCB has been a rollercoaster ride, filled with victories, disappointments, and brilliant support from the fans.

Under Kohli, the Bengaluru-based franchise has reached the finals once in 2016, which was considered one of Kohli's best seasons so far. RCB celebrated Virat Kohli's loyalty by posting on their official social media handle. Despite the team's inability to clinch its maiden IPL title, Kohli's brilliance has been a constant source of joy and pride for RCB fans. Kohli holds the record for being the highest run-scorer in the tournament's history, scoring an incredible 7,263 runs across 237 matches. He has also scored the most centuries (7) by an Indian batter in the IPL.

“Loyalty above all. We love you, King Kohli,” RCB posted on their 'X' handle.

Check out RCB's latest post for Virat Kohli here:

Also read: Matthew Hayden spotlights Kohli's lacklustre performance against CSK

RCB celebrates Virat Kohli's unwavering loyalty for the franchise

Notably, as the former captain of the team, Virat Kohli has been a driving force behind the franchise's strategic decisions and team culture. His leadership and mentorship have played a crucial role in nurturing young talents within the RCB ranks. Kohli will take the field for the first time after missing the recent Test series against England due to the birth of his second child. RCB will be taking on Chennai Super Kings in the tournament opener on March 22nd at Chennai.

Also read: If Virat Kohli goes on to score runs for RCB, it means the team will go forward: Harbhajan Singh