'It Is Going To Be 20 Years': Virat Kohli Issues First Statement, To Play For RCB Until 2027

Virat Kohli has expressed his desire to continue playing in Indian Premier League ( IPL ) for at least ar three years, aiming to complete 20 years with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). 36-year-old has been retained by RCB for a hefty fee of Rs 21 crore and has said that he wishes to play for franchise until IPL 2027.

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Virat Kohli expresses desire to play for RCB until 2027

Virat Kohli, who has been playing for RCB since inception of IPL in 2008, has accumulated over 8,000 runs in competition and is leading run-scorer. He has expressed his gratitude towards franchise and its fans, stating that he doesn't see himself playing for any or team in league. Kohli is one of few players in IPL's history associated with just one team. 

"At end of this cycle, it is going to be 20 years that I am going to be playing for RCB and that in itself is a very, very special feeling for me. I don't see myself anywhere or than RCB, and I am very happy that it happened," Kohli told 'RCB's Bold Diaries'. 

"I am super excited as ever as everyone kws what RCB means to me. It's been a very, very special relationship over so many years, which continues to grow stronger."

former RCB captain has also emphasized his goal of winning elusive IPL title, stating that RCB will leave stone unturned in ir pursuit of championship. "We are going to give it our best shot as always and try to make everyone proud of way we play our cricket," he said.

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“I am also just looking forward to this cycle. Obviously, goal is to win IPL title at least once in next cycle.”

Apart from Virat Kohli, RCB has also retained Rajat Patidar (Rs 11 crore) and Yash Dayal (Rs 5 crore). RCB will w have job of building a strong squad and finding a captain at upcoming IPL 2025 auction. re are rumours that Kohli may take up captaincy again but thing has been confirmed as of yet.