NEW DELHI: Star Indian batter Virat Kohli expressed his delight on joining the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp in preparation for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL), scheduled to commence on March 22.
Kohli acknowledged his happiness, stating, “It is really good to be back,” as he gears up to represent his franchise once again in the highly anticipated tournament.Defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) set to clash with RCB in a South Indian derby in IPL opener at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
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Kohli has been absent from competitive cricket since the conclusion of the two T20I matches against Afghanistan in January. His absence was extended to the five-match Test series against England at home due to the birth of his son Akaay in London.
Wearing a round neck t-shirt with ‘Dad’ written on its back, Kohli couldn’t control his emotions, as soon as he entered the gym area, saying, “Kya baat hai yaar.”
“It is really good to be back, firstly playing cricket. Also, exciting to come back to Bangalore for the start of the IPL season. Similar emotions, similar feelings. I have not been off the media radar for two months, I have been into normalcy you can say. I am pretty happy to be back, I hope all the fans are happy and excited as well,” Kohli shared his views in a video posted by RCB on social media platform X.

This IPL season holds significant importance for Kohli, especially with the recent success of the women’s RCB team, who secured their maiden Women’s Premier League (WPL) title by defeating Delhi Capitals in the final at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium.
As the highest run-getter in IPL history, Kohli’s performance will be closely watched. With 7,263 runs in 237 matches and 229 innings, Kohli boasts an impressive average of 37.24 and a strike rate of 130.02. His highest score of 113 reflects his batting prowess, having scored seven centuries and 50 fifties over his IPL career, the most by any batter.

In the previous season, Kohli was the fourth-highest run-scorer, accumulating 639 runs at an impressive average of 53.25 and a strike rate of 139.82. His best score of 101* included two centuries and six fifties.
Despite his individual brilliance, Kohli’s efforts fell short of guiding his side to the playoffs. Given his track record and determination, all eyes will be on Kohli as he aims to lead RCB to success in the upcoming IPL season.
(With ANI inputs)