After an 18-year wait, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) won their first IPL title, defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs in the final at Ahmedabad’s historic Narendra Modi Stadium. For RCB fans and star player Virat Kohli, the victory meant more than just winning. Virat Kohli , the only player to have played for the same franchise from its inception, could not hold back his tears following the triumph.
However, following the game, he spoke openly about the value of Test cricket and urged new players to approach the format with great respect. Notably, the seasoned hitter recently retired from the game’s longest format and regarded the IPL feat as far less important than Test cricket in his cricketing career.
“You know, this is one of the best moments of my career. However, it still indicates five levels under Test cricket. This is how much I value Test cricket. And that’s how much I enjoy Test cricket. So I’d simply want the young people coming in to handle that structure with respect. Because if you perform well in Test cricket, people around the world will look you in the eye, shake your hand, and say, “Well done,
you played the game exceptionally well.” So, if you want to earn respect in the world of cricket, take up Test cricket and devote your heart and soul to it,”
Virat Kohli urged the broadcasters after RCB’s historic victory.
Just weeks before his historic IPL victory, the 36-year-old announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12, capping an amazing 14-year career in red ball cricket. Kohli, who has 123 Tests under his belt, including 68 as captain, and over 9200 runs to his record, has been the most vocal proponent of the format due to his enthusiasm and consistency. Notably, his retirement announcement came just before India’s highly anticipated five-match series against England, which begins on June 20.
Kohli, who will now play just One-Day Internationals for India, is scheduled to return to action in August for a three-match series against Bangladesh.
India
