Virat Kohli IPL

Virat Kohli is the only player to play for a single franchise since 2008 

Often referred to as the modern master of cricket, Virat Kohli has made a massive name for himself in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as one of its most prodigious and consistent performers. His journey in the IPL, starting in 2008 as a raw, yet promising talent with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), is a story laden with relentless ambition, and extraordinary skill.

Initially roped in by RCB, Kohli was a diamond in the rough, his early years marked by flashes of brilliance that hinted at the powerhouse he was destined to become. As the years progressed, especially post-2011, Kohli not only honed his batting skills but also emerged as the backbone of the RCB lineup. His transformation from a young firebrand to a cricketing behemoth was not just seen in his batting but also in his rise to leadership.

Donning the captain's hat, Kohli led with fiery aggression and sharp tactics, mirroring the very essence of his batting style. Under his captaincy, RCB was a force to be reckoned with, characterized by a never-say-die attitude and a hunger for victory. Though the elusive IPL crown remains just out of reach, his leadership has been nothing short of inspirational.

As a batsman, Kohli's exploits in the IPL are the stuff of legends. His aggressive playstyle along with a penchant for hitting exquisite shots, makes him a linchpin in RCB's batting arsenal. His phenomenal 2016 season, where he accumulated a staggering 973 runs including four centuries, is etched in the IPL's history as a benchmark for excellence. Kohli's ability to chase colossal targets with a cool head and a steady bat has earned him the moniker of the 'Chase Master'.

Kohli, the leading run-scorer in the tournament’s history, continues to be a vital figure in the competition, enthralling audiences with his batting brilliance and the sheer intensity he brings to the game. His legacy in the IPL is not just about the records he's shattered; it's about the lasting impression he's left on the hearts of cricket fans worldwide. Here’s a detailed look at the Virat Kohli IPL Career.

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Virat Kohli Centuries

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Virat Kohli IPL Debut

Kohli's IPL debut was a significant moment in the 2008 inaugural season of the tournament, marking the entry of a future cricketing superstar into this high-profile arena. Donning the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) jersey, Kohli stepped onto the field against Kolkata Knight Riders, a match that would be remembered for Brendon McCullum's explosive century (158 off 73 balls).

In this high-octane environment, Kohli, then a budding 19-year-old cricketer, made a modest entry into the league. His performance in this debut match was a humble beginning, scoring a mere 1 run before being bowled by Ashoke Dinda. KKR went on to win the match by a whopping 140 runs. This initial outing, though not reflective of the extraordinary feats he would later achieve, was the first step in Kohli's journey in the IPL, a tournament where he would eventually rise to be one of the most formidable batsmen and respected captains in its history.

Virat Kohli Last IPL Match

Kohli's last IPL match was RCB’s last league match of IPL 2023, a high-stakes encounter against the Gujarat Titans, that turned out to be a memorable yet bittersweet affair for the veteran batter. In a must-win game for RCB, Kohli rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion, scoring a magnificent 101 off 61 balls. His innings, filled with 13 fours and a six showed his class and skillsin the T20 format. This magnificent century, marking his second in consecutive matches following a ton against Sunrisers Hyderabad, underlined Kohli's status as one of the game's greats.

Despite Kohli's heroics, which propelled RCB to a formidable 197/5, the match took an unexpected turn. Shubman Gill of the Gujarat Titans delivered a stunning counter-attack, blazing his way to 104 off 52 balls. Gill's explosive innings, marked by precision and power, overshadowed Kohli's effort and steered Gujarat to a thrilling chase, reaching the target in 19.1 overs.

Virat Kohli IPL Journey

IPL 2008: The Beginning

Virat Kohli's introduction to the IPL in 2008 with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) was a time of acclimatization. In his debut season, he played 13 matches, scoring a total of 165 runs at an average of 15.00. This period was crucial for Kohli to understand the dynamics of T20 cricket, setting the stage for his future growth.

IPL 2009: Rising Prominence

The 2009 IPL, hosted in South Africa, was a step forward for Kohli. He scored 246 runs across 16 matches with an improved average of 22.36. His performances contributed to RCB's remarkable turnaround, leading them to the finals, a significant improvement from their seventh-place finish in the previous season.

IPL 2010: Establishing Consistency

In 2010, Kohli started to show signs of consistency. He played all 16 matches, amassing 307 runs at an average of 27.90. His role in the team was becoming more defined, and he was starting to be recognized for his potential and talent.

IPL 2011: Breakthrough and Emergence

2011 was a watershed year for Kohli. He smashed 557 runs in 16 matches at an average of 46.41. This performance included several crucial knocks, establishing him as a mainstay in the RCB batting lineup.

IPL 2012: The Reliable Force

Continuing his form, Kohli scored 364 runs in 16 matches in the 2012 season, with an average of 28.00. His consistency made him a reliable force in the middle order, contributing significantly to RCB's batting strength.

IPL 2013: Captaincy and Leading by Example

2013 marked Kohli's ascension to RCB's full-time captaincy. He led from the front, scoring 634 runs in 16 matches at an average of 45.28. This season underscored his leadership skills and his ability to perform under pressure.

IPL 2014: A Testing Year

The 2014 season was challenging for Kohli. He scored 359 runs in 14 matches at an average of 27.61. Despite a drop in his personal performance, he continued to grow as a leader, gaining valuable experience in managing team dynamics and strategies.

IPL 2015: A Strong Comeback

Kohli made a strong comeback in 2015. He scored 505 runs in 16 matches at an average of 45.90. This season was marked by several match-winning innings, reaffirming his status as one of the premier batsmen in the league.

IPL 2016: A Season for the Ages

Kohli had a record-breaking 2016 season, scoring a mammoth 973 runs in 16 matches at an average of 81.08, including four centuries and seven fifties. This performance set a new standard in batting excellence in the IPL and was a highlight of his career.

IPL 2017: Battling Adversity

In 2017, Kohli faced challenges with injuries but still managed to score 308 runs in 10 matches at an average of 30.80. His commitment and ability to perform despite physical setbacks were commendable.

IPL 2018: The Dependable Titan

Kohli continued to be the backbone of RCB in 2018, amassing 530 runs in 14 matches at an average of 48.18. His role as a dependable titan of the team was more pronounced than ever, delivering consistent performances.

IPL 2019: Holding the Fort

The 2019 season saw Kohli as the linchpin of RCB's batting. He scored 464 runs in 14 matches at an average of 33.14. Despite the team's overall struggles, Kohli's performances were a silver lining.

IPL 2020: Adapting to New Normals

The 2020 season, affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, presented unique challenges. Kohli adapted admirably, scoring 466 runs in 15 matches at an average of 42.36, leading RCB to the playoffs in a bio-secure environment.

IPL 2021: The End of a Captaincy Era

In 2021, Kohli announced it would be his last season as RCB captain. He scored 405 runs in 15 matches at an average of 28.92. This season was emblematic of his dedication to RCB and the IPL, and his decision to step down from captaincy marked the end of a significant era in his career.

IPL 2022: A New Role in the Team

The 2022 IPL season marked a new chapter for Kohli, as he took to the field no longer as the captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore. This transition was reflected in his performance, where he scored 341 runs in 16 matches at an average of 22.73. The season was a mix of highs and lows for Kohli, with a few standout innings, but overall it was a year where he seemed to be adjusting to his new role and the dynamics within the team.

IPL 2023: Resurgence and Consistent Brilliance

In the 2023 season, Kohli showcased a resurgence of form and consistent brilliance. He amassed 639 runs in 14 matches, averaging 53.25. This season was highlighted by two consecutive centuries, including a spectacular 101 off 61 balls against Gujarat Titans in his last league match. This season reaffirmed his status as one of the premier batsmen in the IPL and a crucial pillar for RCB.

Virat Kohli IPL Stats

Virat Kohli IPL Price

Virat Kohli IPL Salary

Kohli has amassed an impressive total of ₹1,732,00,00,000 from his tenure in the league. His commitment to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) since the league's inception in 2008 stands as an attestation to his loyalty and consistent performance. Kohli's salary trajectory over the years mirrors his evolution from a young talent to one of the game's greats. Here’s a look at Virat Kohli’s total IPL income.

Initial Years (2008-2010): Laying the Foundation

From 2008 to 2010, Kohli was a budding talent in the RCB squad, earning INR 12 lakh annually. These formative years saw him honing his skills and gradually making a name for himself in the competitive environment of the IPL.

Rising Stock (2011-2013): Retention and Growth

In a significant move, RCB retained Kohli in 2011 for an impressive INR 8.28 crore, a salary he continued to receive until 2013. This period marked his rise as a prominent player in the team, showcasing his exceptional batting skills and emerging leadership qualities.

Cementing His Place (2014-2017): The Marquee Player

Kohli's importance in the RCB setup was further solidified in 2014 when he was retained for a hefty sum of INR 12.5 crore, a figure he continued to command till 2017. During these years, his performances consistently elevated him as one of the top players in the league, justifying his substantial salary.

Peak Valuation (2018-2021): Leading From the Front

The RCB, recognizing Kohli's invaluable contribution, retained him yet again in 2018, this time for a staggering INR 17 crore, which he earned till 2021. His role as a captain and a top-order batsman was instrumental in this significant remuneration, reflecting his status as a prominent figure in the IPL.

Post-Captaincy Era (2022-2023): The Veteran's Worth

Even after stepping down from captaincy, Kohli's association with RCB remained strong. He was retained for INR 15 crore for the years 2022 and 2023, underlining his undiminished value to the team. As one of the league's highest earners, Kohli's salary demonstrates the immense trust and respect he commands within the RCB franchise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Virat Kohli IPL Career

Q.1. When did Virat Kohli make his IPL debut?

Answer: Virat Kohli made his IPL debut in 2008 with the Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Q.2. How many runs did Virat Kohli score in his debut IPL season?

Answer: Virat Kohli scored 165 runs in the IPL 2008 season.

Q.3. When did Virat Kohli become the captain of RCB?

Answer: Virat Kohli became the full-time captain of RCB in 2013.

Q.4. How many centuries did Virat Kohli score in the 2016 IPL season?

Answer: Virat Kohli scored four centuries in the 2016 IPL season.

Q.5. Who has the most centuries in IPL history?

Answer: Virat Kohli has the most number of centuries (7) in IPL history.

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