Don’t Take Virat Kohli for Granted: RCB Director Mo Bobat on Star Batter’s Legacy
The Irreplaceable Impact of Virat Kohli
In the high-stakes world of the Indian Premier League, few players command the influence and respect that Virat Kohli holds within the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) camp. As the franchise navigates the 2026 season as defending champions, Director of Cricket Mo Bobat has urged the organization and its supporters never to take the legendary batter for granted.
Kohli has long been the heartbeat of the Bengaluru franchise. His presence is the primary reason for the team’s massive global following, but according to Bobat, the real value lies in the intangibles he brings to the dressing room. While his statistics are staggering, they only tell half the story of a man whose standards have redefined professional preparation.
More Than Just Numbers
Statistically, Kohli is once again at the pinnacle of the sport. Having amassed over 540 runs in 13 matches this season at an impressive average of 54.20 and a blistering strike rate of 164.74, he remains the engine room of the RCB lineup. However, Bobat insists that evaluating Kohli solely through digits is a mistake.
“We shouldn’t take Virat Kohli’s performance for granted in any way,” Bobat told India Today. “If Virat Kohli is not there, you would have to find ways to get 500 to 700 runs from somewhere else every year.”
Beyond the runs, Bobat highlights Kohli’s relentless intensity. Despite coaching at the highest level, Bobat admitted that Kohli’s daily drive is exceptional, often surpassing even his own high standards. This intensity sets a benchmark for the entire squad, ensuring that training sessions and match preparations are conducted with peak professionalism.
Alignment with Team Culture
Since winning the title last year, RCB has been focused on building a culture defined by excellence. Bobat notes that Kohli’s personal standards align perfectly with the vision held by himself and head coach Andy Flower. This shared philosophy regarding practice and match-day execution has been a cornerstone of the team’s recent success.
Kohli’s role as a leader has evolved, providing invaluable support to current captain Rajat Patidar. By offering tactical suggestions and maintaining a calm yet aggressive demeanor, Kohli allows other players the freedom to express themselves, effectively lifting the pressure off his teammates.
A Legacy of Consistency
The 2026 season has seen Kohli silence his critics regarding his scoring rate. His aggressive approach at the crease has been instrumental in RCB’s successful march to the playoffs. Consider these milestones from the ongoing campaign:
- He became the first batter in IPL history to surpass 500 runs in nine different seasons.
- He has extended his streak of scoring over 400 runs per season to 12 consecutive editions.
- He remains the fastest player to accumulate 14,000 T20 runs, a record that cements his status as an all-time great.
His recent form—including a sensational hundred against Kolkata Knight Riders and a vital 58 against Punjab Kings—was pivotal in securing a playoff berth in Dharamsala. As the only player to have represented a single franchise throughout his entire IPL career, Kohli’s bond with RCB is unique.
Looking Ahead
As the tournament reaches its business end, RCB fans are cautiously optimistic about repeating their title success. With Kohli chasing yet another Orange Cap and continuing to act as the team’s primary influence, his contributions are being celebrated more than ever. Whether he is mentoring younger players, leading the tactical planning sessions, or demolishing bowling attacks, Virat Kohli remains the ultimate asset for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. His career serves as a masterclass in consistency, proving that while legends are born, they are maintained through unwavering discipline and a relentless hunger for excellence.
