Regarded as one of the cricketing greats, Virat Kohli’s illustrious career has seen him amass numerous accolades, yet the coveted Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy has eluded him. Despite several close calls with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), reaching the final but falling short, Kohli has opted for loyalty over the allure of potential success with another franchise.
In a candid conversation with RCB in 2022, Kohli disclosed that various franchises had approached him, encouraging him to put his name in the IPL auction. However, the stalwart batsman chose to remain steadfast in his commitment to the Bengaluru-based franchise.
Acknowledging that the thought of joining another team did cross his mind, Kohli explained, “To be very honest, I thought about it. Yes, I won’t shy away from it, and I have been approached many times as well to come into the auction somehow, put my name there and stuff.”
Reflecting on his decision, Kohli emphasized the transient nature of sporting achievements and the importance of personal character. He highlighted that winning titles may bring temporary joy, but it’s the lasting impact of being a good person that truly matters in the grand scheme of life.
“For me, the understanding that the loyalty with RCB, like how I follow my life, is far greater for me than the fact that five people in the room will say, ‘Oh, finally you win the IPL with whoever xyz.’ You feel good for five minutes, but then in the sixth minute, you could be miserable with some other issues in life. So, it is not the end of the world for me.”
Kohli’s loyalty to RCB, a team that believed in him when others did not, holds immense significance. He underlined the special opportunities and faith that the franchise bestowed upon him, emphasizing that success with RCB is a testament to their belief in him.
Reflecting on his journey, Kohli shared, “What this franchise has given me in terms of opportunities in the first three years and believed in me, that is the most special thing because, as I said, there are many teams who had the opportunity, but they didn’t back me, they didn’t believe in me.”
In choosing loyalty over the pursuit of trophies, Virat Kohli’s commitment to RCB echoes a deeper conviction in values and the enduring impact of genuine support.
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