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In a city where red has always been the color of passion and loyalty, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans are preparing for a dramatic transformation at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. As RCB faces Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a much-anticipated IPL 2025 clash, Bengaluru’s cricket faithful are rallying online to give a heartfelt homage to Virat Kohli’s illustrious Test career. The movement, sparked by social media appeals, aims to honour Kohli, who recently announced his retirement from Test cricket, by donning the iconic whites associated with the longest and most revered format of the game.
RCB fans to organise a tribute for Virat Kohli
The idea behind this fan-led initiative is as symbolic as it is emotional. Kohli, who played 123 Tests and scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, is celebrated not just for his batting prowess but for his transformative leadership as India‘s most successful Test captain. His connection to the whites of Test cricket runs deep; in his own words, the format “tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life,” and he described wearing whites as “deeply personal”.
For many fans, especially in Bengaluru-Kohli’s IPL home for over a decade-the chance to pay tribute in this manner is both a celebration and a farewell. Social media is abuzz with calls to action: “Bengaluru guys, you have one job to do-SPREAD THE WORD,” wrote one passionate supporter, urging fans to swap their traditional red and gold for white shirts or Test jerseys. The movement has even inspired ideas to distribute plain white T-shirts at the stadium, ensuring that everyone, regardless of means, can participate in this collective gesture, calling for a “sea of white” in the stands.
RCB fans request everyone to wear Test White jersey to give a great tribute to Virat Kohli. 👏❤️
– Amazing initiative by the fans! pic.twitter.com/phcg0ZfGMQ
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) May 13, 2025
Also READ: All 10 IPL franchises pay heartfelt tribute to Virat Kohli on his Test retirement
Chinnaswamy Stadium gearing up for electrifying atmosphere during RCB vs KKR clash
The Chinnaswamy Stadium is no stranger to electrifying atmospheres, but the upcoming RCB vs KKR match promises something unprecedented. Instead of the usual sea of red, a wave of white will sweep through the stands, creating a visual spectacle that transcends team rivalries and IPL traditions. This coordinated display is not just about colour; it’s about community, gratitude, and the enduring impact of a cricketing icon.
Kohli’s retirement has sparked tributes from legends and fans worldwide, but this initiative stands out for its grassroots spirit and emotional resonance. It reflects how deeply Kohli’s Test journey has touched supporters, many of whom credit him with reigniting their love for the purest form of the game. For those who never saw him play a Test live, this is a chance to let him know how profoundly he is admired and missed in whites.
As the IPL resumes and RCB takes the field against the defending champions, the Chinnaswamy crowd’s tribute will serve as a powerful reminder: cricket is not just about runs and records, but also about the connections forged between players and fans. On May 17, Bengaluru will show the world that sometimes, the most vibrant tribute is painted in the simplest colour-white.
Also READ: Top 5 most successful captains in Test cricket ft. Virat Kohli
