• Virat Kohli reflected on his IPL future and the idea of playing as an Impact Player in the future.

  • Legendary Kohli has finally lifted the prestigious IPL trophy with RCB after the long wait of 18 years.

Will Virat Kohli embrace the Impact Player tag in future IPL editions? The RCB icon answers
Virat Kohli (Image Source: X)

The 18-year quest for the Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy finally ended as the legendary Virat Kohli lifted the prestigious title. The backbone of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) since the league’s inception, Kohli was broke down in tears after RCB’s historic triumph at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Speaking to Matthew Hayden in the post-match interview, Kohli opened up about his thoughts, experiences, and plans for the future. Among them, he hinted on the possibility of continuing in the league in a different capacity, potentially as an Impact Player.

Virat Kohli reacts on playing as an Impact Player 

Virat during the post match talk with Matthew Hayden reflected on the limited time of his career, emphasizing his desire to give everything he has until the very end. He expressed a strong commitment to continuously improving and contributing in all aspects of the game. Kohli made it clear that he does not see himself playing only as an Impact Player, as he values being on the field for the full 20 overs and making a difference with his energy and fielding. He credited his mindset and talent to a blessing, and remains focused on finding various ways to support his team.

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli breaks down in tears as RCB ends 18-year drought to lift IPL trophy

“Well, I have an opportunity to play this game for not many years. So there is an end date to our career, as you know. And by the time that I hang up my boots, I want to sit at home and say I gave it everything I had. So I look for ways to improve. I cannot play as an impact player. I want to field 20 overs and make an impact in the field. That is the kind of player I have been. And God blessed me with that perspective, with the talent. And then you find different ways to help the team,” Virat said.

Kohli’s remarkable career in the IPL 

The leading run-scorer and one of the true ambassadors of the IPL, Virat have had a career that transcends statistics. Representing a single franchise, RCB for 18 consecutive years, his loyalty and impact on the league are unmatched. Virat has had an illustrious IPL career, featuring in 267 matches and scoring 8,661 runs at an impressive average of 39.55. With a highest score of 113, he has consistently delivered match-winning performances, including 8 centuries and 63 half-centuries. Kohli has maintained a healthy strike rate of 132.86 showcasing his ability to balance consistency with aggressive scoring. His numbers underline his status as one of the greatest T20 batters in the history of the game.

Also READ: Fans go gaga in jubilation as RCB lifts their maiden IPL title after victory against Punjab Kings in 2025 season final

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About the Author:
Varun Verma is a dedicated cricket enthusiast with a flair for storytelling and in-depth analysis. Combining a deep knowledge of the sport with a talent for engaging content creation, he brings the drama and thrill of the game to life for fans around the world. Drawing inspiration from the grit and passion of players like Ben Stokes, Varun aspires to one day experience the electrifying atmosphere of a Test match at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. He can be reached at varun.verma@crickettimes.com and followed on LinkedIn and X.