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King Kohli and RCB: A Loyalty Story Like No Other in IPL

  • Writer: ICE CRIC
    ICE CRIC
  • May 12, 2025
  • 3 min read

In a tournament known for its constant shuffling of players, blockbuster trades, and relentless pursuit of trophies, there stands one story that is refreshingly different—Virat Kohli and Royal Challengers Bangalore. From the inaugural season in 2008 to now, Kohli's unwavering loyalty to RCB is a tale that transcends stats and results. It’s about passion, commitment, and a deep bond that defines both the player and the franchise.


While many players have switched allegiances for better prospects or titles, Kohli has stood by RCB through highs, lows, and everything in between. Over the years, he has transformed from a talented youngster into the face of the franchise and one of the biggest icons the Indian Premier League has ever seen. But what makes this loyalty story so special isn't just the longevity—it's the emotional connection and the sense of belonging that Kohli has built with RCB fans and the city of Bengaluru.

When Kohli began his IPL journey, he wasn’t the global superstar he is today. He was a promising U-19 World Cup-winning captain, still finding his place in international cricket. RCB took a chance on him, and he returned that faith with performances and unmatched dedication. As he grew into a leader and run-machine for India, he brought the same hunger to RCB. Over the years, the franchise became synonymous with him. The red and gold jersey wasn’t just a uniform—it was a second skin.

Under his leadership, RCB reached the IPL final in 2016, a season where Kohli smashed a record-breaking 973 runs with four centuries. It was arguably the greatest individual IPL season of all time. While the trophy eluded them that year, Kohli’s performances were a spectacle of consistency, flair, and a burning desire to win for the team he held close to his heart.

What stands out the most is how Kohli has handled the disappointments. In a team sport, success isn't always in your control, and RCB has had its share of heartbreaks—missed playoffs, bottom-of-the-table finishes, and some painful eliminations. But never once did Kohli turn his back. He didn’t jump ship when other franchises might have offered better title hopes. Instead, he took ownership, always fronting up after losses, taking responsibility, and vowing to come back stronger.

Kohli’s bond with RCB isn’t transactional—it’s emotional. You see it in the way he celebrates every wicket at Chinnaswamy. You hear it in his speeches, in the way he talks about the team as “us” and “we” rather than “they.” You feel it in the moments where he’s visibly hurting after a loss, not because of personal failure, but because of the weight he carries for the team.

Even after stepping down from captaincy, Kohli remained the heartbeat of the side. He embraced the role of a senior player, mentor, and motivator. His presence in the dressing room continues to inspire the younger generation, and his passion on the field remains undiminished. It’s rare in T20 leagues around the world to see such long-standing player-franchise loyalty, especially in a format known for change and churn.

For RCB fans, Kohli isn’t just a cricketer—he's a symbol of belief. He represents the hope that loyalty, persistence, and passion will one day be rewarded. Every year, as the season kicks off, there’s that same chant from the stands—“Ee Sala Cup Namde”—and with Kohli in the side, that dream always feels alive.

Whether RCB wins the IPL trophy or not, Virat Kohli’s story with the franchise is already legendary. It’s not just about cricket. It’s about choosing to stay, fight, and build something that lasts. In a world of fleeting commitments, King Kohli’s journey with RCB is a loyalty story like no other—a bond written in sweat, passion, and an unshakeable sense of belonging.


 
 
 

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