RCB Coach Salutes Virat Kohli’s Influence After Historic IPL Title Defence

India, June 02 : Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s successful defence of their Indian Premier League crown has once again highlighted the immense value Virat Kohli brings beyond his performances with the bat. Following RCB’s five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, head coach Andy Flower praised the veteran batter for setting benchmarks that continue to elevate the entire squad.

Kohli played a match-winning knock in the title decider, remaining unbeaten on 75 runs from just 42 deliveries. His innings featured nine boundaries and three maximums, while his 25 ball half-century marked the quickest fifty of his IPL career. The experienced batter anchored the chase with authority as Bengaluru comfortably reached the target of 156 to secure consecutive championships.

Reflecting on the triumph, Flower highlighted the qualities that make Kohli such a valuable presence in the dressing room. According to the RCB coach, the former skipper’s determination, professionalism and desire to improve remain as strong as ever despite years of success at the highest level.

Flower noted that Kohli’s standards naturally push teammates to perform better. The coach explained that the star batter’s intensity on the field creates an environment where everyone is expected to maintain high levels of commitment and energy. As a result, the responsibility of enforcing standards often takes care of itself because players witness Kohli leading through his actions.

The former Zimbabwe captain also pointed to Kohli’s passion for batting as one of the defining aspects of his character. Whether during practice sessions or competitive matches, the veteran continues to display a deep love for the game. Flower believes that younger players benefit greatly from watching Kohli’s preparation, discipline and dedication to mastering his craft.

RCB captain Rajat Patidar echoed similar sentiments while discussing his own development as a leader. Since taking over the captaincy before the 2025 season, Patidar has relied on Kohli’s vast experience whenever difficult decisions arise on or off the field.

Patidar revealed that observing Kohli closely has become an important part of his learning process. The skipper explained that he regularly turns to the former captain for advice regarding leadership responsibilities and tactical choices. Having access to one of cricket’s most accomplished figures has helped him grow in confidence while navigating the challenges of leading a high-profile franchise.

The partnership between Patidar and Kohli has proven highly effective for Bengaluru. Under Patidar’s captaincy, the franchise has captured back-to-back IPL titles, establishing itself as one of the dominant teams in the competition.

Patidar also enjoyed an outstanding individual season. The right-handed batter accumulated 501 runs at an impressive strike rate of 192.69 and produced several impactful performances throughout the campaign. Among his standout innings was an unbeaten 93 in Qualifier 1, a knock that played a crucial role in RCB’s journey to the final.

While Bengaluru’s success has been built on collective contributions, the latest championship run once again underlined Kohli’s enduring importance to the franchise. Through his performances, work ethic and leadership influence, the batting superstar continues to inspire teammates and drive the standards that have helped RCB maintain its position at the top of the IPL.