Virat Kohli’s Vital Role: Why RCB Must Not Take Their Legend for Granted
The Pillar of Bengaluru: Why Virat Kohli Remains Unrivaled
In the high-stakes, ever-evolving world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), few names carry the weight and legacy of Virat Kohli. As the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) look to defend their championship title, the conversation surrounding the team often finds its way back to one individual. Mo Bobat, the Director of Cricket at RCB, has recently urged the franchise and its supporters to never take the legendary batter for granted.
Beyond the Bat: The True Value of Kohli
While Kohli’s ability to find the boundary is well-documented, Bobat emphasizes that the veteran’s contribution to the team goes far beyond his impressive run tally. In the 2026 season, Kohli has already amassed over 500 runs, proving once again why he is the backbone of the RCB lineup. However, Bobat points out a logistical reality: if Kohli were not anchoring the innings, the team would be tasked with finding 500 to 700 runs from other sources every single year—a monumental challenge for any franchise.
“We shouldn’t take Virat Kohli’s performance for granted in anyways,” Bobat remarked in a recent interview. He highlights that while the runs are critical, it is Kohli’s intangible qualities—his unmatched intensity, his preparation, and his leadership—that truly set him apart. According to Bobat, Kohli’s work ethic is not just personal; it is infectious, influencing the entire dressing room to elevate their own standards.
Aligning with the Coaching Philosophy
Since the arrival of head coach Andy Flower, RCB has focused on building a culture rooted in high performance and professional excellence. Bobat notes that Kohli’s personal standards align perfectly with this vision. Whether it is the intensity displayed during practice sessions or the meticulous planning before a match, Kohli acts as a standard-bearer for the rest of the squad. He is not merely a player; he is a force of nature who demands excellence from himself and those around him.
A Masterclass in 2026
The numbers from the ongoing 2026 season tell a story of sheer dominance. In 13 matches, Kohli has scored 542 runs at a commanding average of 54.20 and a blistering strike rate of 164.74. This aggressive approach has drawn praise, especially as it provides the freedom for his teammates to express themselves, knowing that Kohli is providing a stable yet explosive foundation at the top of the order.
- Fastest to 14,000 T20 runs: Kohli continues to break barriers, becoming the first Indian cricketer to reach this historic milestone.
- Consistent Excellence: He is the first batter in IPL history to score 500-plus runs in nine separate seasons.
- A Streak of Success: Kohli has maintained a streak of scoring over 400 runs for 12 consecutive IPL editions.
Leadership and Legacy
Kohli’s influence extends into the tactical side of the game. Even while not serving as the regular captain, his suggestions to Rajat Patidar have been invaluable, often swaying the momentum of crucial matches. His knock against the Kolkata Knight Riders—a stunning century following a brief dip in form—reminded the world of his mental resilience. His 58-run performance against the Punjab Kings was equally pivotal in securing RCB’s spot in the playoffs.
As RCB aims to defend their title, the contributions of Virat Kohli will undoubtedly be central to their success. He remains the only player in the history of the competition to represent a single franchise for the entirety of his career. For the fans in Bengaluru, watching Kohli in action is not just about the hope of another trophy; it is about witnessing a legendary career that continues to redefine the standards of modern cricket. As the postseason approaches, the focus remains clear: with Kohli leading the charge, RCB is a force to be reckoned with.
