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After an extensive 18-year wait, Virat Kohli finally got to taste the IPL title on June 3 as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 6 runs in the final to end their trophy drought.
The moment that had always eluded 'King' Kohli finally arrived, Virat alongside his beloved RCB, triumphantly lifted the IPL trophy. This victory marked the culmination of a long journey for the Bengaluru-based franchise, and the significance of the moment for their superstar player, Kohli, was undeniable. Despite the euphoria of the IPL win, Kohli took the opportunity to once again emphasised the enduring importance of the long format of the game, Test cricket, a format he has so passionately dominated throughout his career.
Kohli had announced his retirement from his distinguished 14-year Test cricket career just last month, after proudly representing India in 123 Test matches. During his illustrious Test career, he amassed 9,230 runs at an impressive average of 46.85. Kohli, who has built an enduring legacy in the whites of the Indian cricket team, passionately spoke about the necessity of preserving the long format and urged youngsters to embrace and respect the traditions of Test cricket. Kohli clearly said that he ranks his IPL trophy five levels below Test cricket.
“There’s a lot that’s been spoken about me already, but this win is for Bangalore. This moment is right up there with the best moments in my career. But it still ranks five levels below Test cricket. If you want to earn respect, take up Test cricket," Kohli said at the post-match presentation.
Virat Kohli transformed red-ball cricket into something deeply personal. He transcended merely playing the game; he lived it with an intensity that was both fierce and unapologetically public. His achievements on the Test arena were far from being minor details; instead, they formed emotionally charged chapters in a narrative that resonated profoundly with millions of fans.
Whether one admired or disliked him, Kohli in the whites of the Test jersey never failed to evoke a strong reaction. Perhaps this is where his greatest legacy lies – not just in the sheer number of runs scored or the victories achieved, but in the creation of unforgettable moments and the stirring of deep emotions in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts.
Throughout his distinguished Test career, Virat Kohli captained India in 68 matches, which stands as the highest number of Tests led by any Indian captain in history. Under his leadership, the team achieved victory on 40 occasions, another remarkable Indian record. His win percentage of 58.82 is the third-best among captains who have led their teams in at least 50 Test matches.
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