IPL 2024: Virat Kohli and RCB touch down in Chennai for opening clash against CSK

Virat Kohli and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team received a warm welcome at Chennai airport late on Tuesday, March 19, as they arrived in the city ahead of their opening match against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL). The highly anticipated clash will be held at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on March 22, Friday.

RCB, who recently unveiled their new name, are aiming to draw inspiration from the success of their women's team in the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2024 as the Smriti Mandhana-led side clinched the trophy outplaying Delhi Capitals in the final showdown. The Faf du Plessis-led side aims to achieve a rare double victory this year by clinching the prestigious title. It is worth noting that, despite reaching the final on three occasions, RCB are yet to taste success.

RCB are bolstered with the availability of Kohli as the ace Indian batter will mark his return to the field following a shorter hiatus due to personal reasons. Upon their arrival in Chennai, the former RCB captain and the whole team were greeted with resounding cheers from fans.

Also read: Kohli, Faf and Smriti present RCB's new jersey to Alan Walker at unbox event

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Winning an IPL title is kind of a dream of mine as well over so many years: Kohli

During the RCB Unbox event held at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on March 19, Virat Kohli expressed his desire for the men's team to double the success. An emotional Kohli further reaffirmed his love and commitment to RCB, stating he would never leave the franchise. The 35-year-old batter, who has been a stalwart of the Bengaluru-based team since the inception of the tournament, further admitted that winning an IPL title has been a long-cherished dream for him.

Also read: It's my dream as well to know what it feels like to win the IPL: Virat Kohli

"Hopefully we can double it up with the trophies. That'll be something truly special. I am always going to be here, try to be part of the group that wins it for the first time. I will try my best with my ability and experience to do it for the fans and the franchise. It is a dream of mine as well to know what it feels like to win the IPL," Kohli said.