Virat Kohli, Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) star batter, expressed excitement after being retained by the franchise ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. Kohli was retained at a record-breaking Rs 21 crore, extending his 18-year association with RCB.
Reflecting on his journey with the team, he shared his deep connection to RCB, appreciating the fans, management, and everyone involved in supporting the franchise. Kohli stated that playing for RCB for nearly two decades is a privilege, with this latest retention marking another chapter in his long-standing relationship with the team.
Franchise’s Ambitious Goal to Secure an IPL Title
Kohli revealed that RCB’s main objective for the upcoming three-year cycle is to secure their first IPL title. Despite strong performances over the years, an IPL championship has eluded the franchise. Kohli affirmed RCB’s commitment to reaching this goal, promising fans that the team will give its best effort to make them proud. He acknowledged the passionate support from RCB fans, which has been vital in driving the team forward, and encouraged them to continue their unwavering support as RCB gears up for a promising cycle.
“Hi Guys, a big hello to everyone at RCB, the fans, the people involved. Behind the scenes. The management, everyone. I’m sending out this message to inform everyone that l’ve been retained by RCB once again for the three-year cycle of the IPL, beginning next year, and I’m super excited as ever. Everyone knows what RCB means to me. It’s been a very, very special relationship over so many years which continues to grow stronger and what I’ve experienced playing for RCB is truly, truly special, and I hope the fans and everyone who’s connected to a franchise feels the same way. At the end of this cycle it’s going to be 20 years that l am going to play for RCB and then that in itself is an honour,” Virat Kohli said in a video posted by the RCB on their social media.
“Something that we were really looking forward to as a franchise, as a team and also just looking ahead to this cycle all next year. Obviously, the goal is to win the IPL title at least once in the next cycle, and we’re going to give it our best shot as always and try to make everyone proud of the way we play. So a big shout-out to the fans for your unwavering support over so many years. Really grateful, really thankful and l’l see you guys very soon. At Chinnaswamy. One cheers. Take care,” he added.
“𝐀𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝟑-𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐜𝐲𝐜𝐥𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝟐𝟎 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐑𝐂𝐁 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐭𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠.”
— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) October 31, 2024
King Kohli expresses his feelings and aspirations for the upcoming IPL ahead of the Mega Auction… pic.twitter.com/aKZEv8mtYf
Kohli, Patidar, and Dayal Among Retentions
Alongside Kohli, RCB retained Rajat Patidar and Yash Dayal, who have also shown potential and commitment to the team. Kohli took a moment to welcome them into the retention fold, expressing optimism about the team’s future lineup. He shared that he is excited for the journey ahead and looks forward to returning to Chinnaswamy Stadium to play in front of the loyal RCB fan base. With a clear target and strengthened squad, RCB enters the new cycle with high hopes and a renewed focus on claiming their first IPL title.
Virat Kohli’s retention by RCB, along with Rajat Patidar and Yash Dayal, marks a renewed commitment by the franchise to achieve their long-aspired IPL title in the upcoming three-year cycle.
Kohli’s 18-year association with the team reflects a unique bond, as he passionately shared his gratitude for the fans and management. With a clear goal to bring home RCB’s first championship, Kohli emphasized the team’s dedication to making fans proud through their performance. Energized by a loyal fan base and a cohesive lineup, RCB is poised to give its all in pursuit of this landmark victory in IPL history.
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