'Selfish Virat Kohli' - How The Tag Undermines India Great's Contribution For RCB

Probuddha Bhattacharjee

Virat Kohli for RCB [Source: @kohlizype/x.com]Virat Kohli for RCB [Source: @kohlizype/x.com]

In the modern IPL landscape dominated by power hitters and explosive openers, Virat Kohli's seemingly conservative strike rate of 143.08 might appear underwhelming. Ranking 14th among 24 qualified openers in IPL 2025, Kohli's approach stands in stark contrast to his opening partner Phil Salt's aggressive 174.39. Yet, a deeper analysis of match outcomes reveals that Kohli's measured batting style might be exactly what Royal Challengers Bengaluru needs for consistent success.

The Anchor Amid the Storm

While the IPL has evolved into a batsman's paradise with openers like Priyansh Arya (210.87) and Abhishek Sharma (193.94) striking at rates that would have been unimaginable a few years ago, Kohli's calculated approach provides stability in RCB's batting lineup. His partnership with the aggressive Phil Salt creates a perfect balance of caution and aggression.

Top IPL 2025 Openers
Strike Rate
Innings
Runs
Priyansh Arya (PBKS)210.875194
Abhishek Sharma (SRH)193.946192
Phil Salt (RCB)174.395143
Travis Head (SRH)171.26214
Virat Kohli (RCB)143.085186

Impact Beyond Strike Rate

Impact Of Kohli's Scores on RCB's Total [Source: OneCricket]Impact Of Kohli's Scores on RCB's Total [Source: OneCricket]

The true value of Kohli's approach becomes evident when examining RCB's win-loss record in relation to his performance. When Kohli contributes 30% or more to RCB's total, they have a perfect 100% win rate. Conversely, when his contribution falls below 30%, their win rate plummets to just 33.33%.

Kohli's Performance
RCB's Win Rate
Scores 50+ runs100% (2/2)
Scores 30-49 runs100% (1/1)
Scores under 30 runs0% (0/2)
Contributes ≥30% to team total100% (2/2)
Contributes <30% to team total33.33% (1/3)

Moreover, RCB averages 199 runs when Kohli scores 50 or more but only 169 runs when he scores below 20, highlighting his influence on the team's overall batting performance.

Datas for IPL 2025 are considered

Impact of Kohli's performance on RCB's match results [Source: OneCricket]Impact of Kohli's performance on RCB's match results [Source: OneCricket]

Consistency in Chaos

In a format where consistent performance is rare, Kohli's reliability becomes invaluable. His early dismissal has invariably led to RCB defeats, while his presence at the crease for longer durations correlates directly with team success. This consistency allows RCB's power hitters to play with freedom, knowing there's an anchor holding one end.

RCB's strategy appears clear: Kohli provides the stability while others around him can take calculated risks. In the high-octane environment of T20 cricket, this measured approach might seem contrary to prevailing trends, but the results speak for themselves – Kohli's "anchor" role is essential for RCB's balanced batting strategy and match-winning formula.