Indian cricket has made many legends over the decades. Virat Kohli stands among the final greatest batters ever. His IPL journey started way back in 2008. Since then, he’s made numerous magical moments for fans. This season marks another chapter in his great story.
Virat Kohli: The Cricket Legend
Virat Kohli captained India’s U-19 World Cup-winning side in 2008. That same year saw his IPL career begin brightly. He’s played for just one franchise throughout his journey. Such loyalty seems rare in modern cricket nowadays.
His batting numbers speak louder than any words possibly could. He’s played 267 IPL matches so far in total. Those games brought him 8661 runs at an average of 39.55. Nobody else has crossed 8000 IPL runs yet.
The 2016 season remains his masterpiece to this day. Kohli smashed 973 runs that year incredibly. That record still stands unbroken after 10 years already. He also won the Orange Cap again in 2024.
GOAT’s IPL Price for 2026
Royal Challengers Bengaluru retained Virat Kohli for another season. They paid ₹21 crore to keep their superstar around. This massive IPL price makes him RCB’s most expensive player. The amount stayed consistent from previous retention cycles.
Few players command such a premium amount in world cricket. His IPL salary reflects both skill and brand value. Franchises know he brings fans to stadiums everywhere. Commercial value matters alongside on-field performances always.
The price also shows RCB’s commitment to him completely. They refused to let their icon leave ever. Kohli and RCB remain inseparable in fans’ minds.
His IPL Team Loyalty
Virat has worn RCB colours since his debut match. His IPL team won a championship trophy last year after waiting 18 seasons. They reached the 2016 final under his captaincy though. That remains their closest attempt at glory so far.
He captained the franchise from 2013 until 2021 continuously. Leadership duties ended but his batting continued shining bright. The team values his experience more than ever now. Young players learn constantly from watching him practice daily.
His IPL team enters 2026 with renewed hope again. Rajat Patidar takes over captaincy duties this time around. Kohli can focus purely on batting performances now.
Records That Define Greatness
Virat Kohli holds numerous IPL records already in his career. 8 centuries and 63 fifties sit beside his name. His highest score was 113 runs in one innings. Consistency separates good players from absolute legends always.
He led India’s national side across all formats previously. That experience brings invaluable knowledge to younger mates constantly. His presence alone lifts the entire squad’s confidence levels. Expect more heroics from him throughout the next season.
