Earlier this week, Kohli announced that he would step down as India’s T20 captain after the upcoming T20 World Cup, Which is going to start in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman on October 17. Now he has decided that he will also relinquish the captaincy of RCB after the 2021 IPL.
Royal Challengers Bangalore announced on Sunday evening that Virat Kohli will step down as RCB captain after the end of the Indian Premier League 2021 season.
Virat Kohli to step down from RCB captaincy after #IPL2021
— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) September 19, 2021
“This will be my last IPL as captain of RCB. I’ll continue to be an RCB player till I play my last IPL game. I thank all the RCB fans for believing in me and supporting me.”: Virat Kohli#PlayBold #WeAreChallengers pic.twitter.com/QSIdCT8QQM
The franchise posted a video on social media, where the RCB skipper announced his decision. “It has been a great and inspiring journey, captaining a talented bunch of players in the RCB squad. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the RCB management, coaches, support staff, players, and the entire RCB family, who have been instrumental in the growth of the franchise over the years.” Virat Kohli said.
It wasn’t an easy decision but one that has been well thought of and in the best interest of this wonderful franchise. The RCB family remains close to my heart as we continue to strive to achieve excellence. As I have mentioned previously on many occasions, I will only play for RCB until my retirement from the game of cricket.” he added.
JUST IN : Virat Kohli has announced he will step down as captain of @RCBTweets after this season of #VIVOIPL pic.twitter.com/A8geqs7JNY
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 19, 2021
RCB Chairman Prathmesh Mishra said, “Virat Kohli is one of the finest cricketers, and has been a true asset to RCB. His impeccable work ethic and leadership skills have been phenomenal. We respect and support this decision and would like to thank Virat for his incredible contribution to the RCB leadership group. He has left an indelible mark on the franchise and will continue to be a senior member of the team.”
Kohli has been with the RCB since the start of the IPL. He was appointed captain of the RCB in 2011 but has yet to win a trophy for the franchise. Under him, RCB’s best performance came in 2016 when the team advanced to the finals.
Before leaving the captaincy, Kohli will definitely want to give RCB their first IPL title this year. RCB is currently third in the league table with 10 points from seven matches.
RCB is set to resume this season’s campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders in Abu Dhabi on September 20 (Monday).
