Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) skipper Virat Kohli expressed his gratitude towards the franchise after being retained. In the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) retentions, RCB retained their star batter and former captain Kohli for another three years. The 33-year-old batter was RCB’s first choice of retention and so was retained for Rs. 15 crores along with Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell and Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj.
Kohli is the longest serving player at a single franchise in the history of IPL as his association roots back to 2008. Kohli, in an interaction, said that he didn’t have any second thoughts and is happy to serve the team for three more years. The veteran also appreciated the fan base and management of RCB for their wonderful support and workings towards the team. Virat will now look forward to winning the maiden IPL trophy for the franchise in the 15th edition.
“The journey continues”
Kohli believes that the best is yet to come for the franchise and has a special feeling for the coming seasons.
“The journey continues, I have been retained by RCB. When I was contacted, did not have any second thoughts at all. It has been an amazing journey over the years, three more years with the franchise that means so much to me. I believe the best is yet to come and I have a special feeling about what is to come next season onwards," said Kohli in a video posted on the official YouTube channel of RCB.
"Our fan base is amazing; management has been amazing with me and all other players. Renewed energy and a different version of me on the field. But I will be there with my heart and soul for RCB," the former RCB skipper added.
14 seasons of greatness
The Indian captain has played 207 matches for the franchise since joining the team in 2008. Kohli has scored 6283 runs with an average of 37.39 which includes five centuries. He has also captained the team from 2013 to 2021 but failed to clinch the IPL title with the franchise. His best season was in 2016 when RCB reached the final but lost in a closely fought contest against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Before the start of the second leg of IPL in September, he stepped down as the captain of RCB.
