Virat Kohli’s IPL 2025: A Fresh Fire in the Belly
The Indian Premier League has always been more than just a cricket tournament—it’s a spectacle, an emotion, and for fans across the country, a time when evenings are reserved for sixes, drama, and edge-of-the-seat thrillers. And this season, Virat Kohli seems to be setting that screen on fire once again!
Already notching up two solid fifties in just four matches, Kohli has kicked off IPL 2025 with a bang. It’s not just about the runs—it's the intent, the aggression, and the renewed energy that’s caught everyone’s attention. Under the sharp coaching of Andy Flower, Royal Challengers Bangalore has rolled into the tournament with confidence, and Kohli is right in the thick of things, spearheading their charge.
But it’s not just about this season. To understand Virat’s current mindset, we have to rewind a little.
Rewinding to the Champions Trophy Glory
Just before the IPL kicked off, Kohli had a brilliant run in the Champions Trophy, reminding everyone that he’s still very much the big-match player we’ve come to expect. A century against Pakistan, a crucial 84 in a tense semi-final against Australia—Kohli wasn’t just scoring runs, he was doing it when it mattered the most.
He spoke about those performances recently, reflecting on how he’s always aimed to fit into the team role rather than chase personal milestones. “It’s never been about ego for me,” he said, candidly. “Even in that game where Shreyas Iyer was going well, I didn’t feel the need to take charge just for the sake of it. If the flow is with me, I take it. If someone else is better placed, they lead. It’s always been about understanding the match situation.”
Now that’s classic Kohli—fiercely competitive but still a team man to the core.
RCB's New Approach and Kohli's Adjusted Role
This season, there’s a slightly different Kohli on display. No longer the lone anchor carrying the innings from start to finish, he’s now playing more aggressively, focusing on quick starts and momentum building. And interestingly, he’s doing it under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, who’s been handed the captaincy reins.
Yes, you read that right! Kohli isn’t leading the side anymore, but he’s clearly enjoying the freedom that comes with just focusing on his batting. With the team currently sitting third on the table, behind Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans, it seems to be working quite well.
From Young Gun to IPL Veteran: Kohli’s Early Struggles
Let’s take a moment to revisit how it all started for Virat in the IPL. You might find it hard to believe now, but there was a time when even Kohli felt out of place in this tournament.
“I was just a kid from Delhi, suddenly sharing the dressing room with legends like Anil Kumble and Rahul Dravid. I’d only met Zaheer bhai and Yuvi paa from my North Zone days. The rest were all superstars,” Kohli said, reminiscing about his early IPL days.
The pressure to perform was immense. “I knew my game wasn’t at that elite level yet. I felt like I had to prove myself every single day. That first season, it was tough. But I soaked in everything like a sponge—it was a dream and a challenge rolled into one.”
The Turning Point: Building the Kohli Era
Those initial seasons (2008 to 2010) were more about learning than leading. Kohli was often slotted down the order, rarely getting chances to bat up front. The real change started in 2009, when the pitches suited his stroke play better. “The ball was coming onto the bat nicely, and I started feeling more in control,” he said.
From 2010 onwards, things began to click. “By 2011, I was regularly batting at No. 3. That’s when I felt like, ‘Yes, now I belong here.’” And from that point on, Kohli never looked back.
Present-Day Power: Kohli’s Redefined Mindset
Fast forward to today, and the confidence is evident—but it’s backed by clarity. Kohli no longer plays with the need to prove himself. “I just focus on what the game needs at that point. That’s always been my biggest strength,” he says.
What’s impressive is how he’s constantly evolved. He isn’t afraid to adapt his style, even if it means stepping out of his comfort zone. Whether it’s aggressive starts, rotating strike, or letting younger players shine, he’s matured into a flexible match-winner, not just a stat-accumulator.
Virat's Take on Ego, Responsibility & Team Spirit
One of the most refreshing parts of Kohli’s journey has been his lack of ego in a sport where personal milestones often take centre stage. “It’s never about overshadowing someone else. If the moment belongs to another player, I support them. If the rhythm is with me, I take control,” he shared during a media chat before the RCB vs DC clash.
This kind of mindset is rare, especially for a player who has been a captain, an icon, and one of the most passionate players in the world.
The Road Ahead: What's Next for Kohli & RCB?
With RCB off to a flying start and Kohli already showing signs of another blockbuster season, fans have plenty to be excited about. The combination of youthful leadership, a fresh coaching perspective, and Kohli’s new approach could be the perfect recipe for success.
And let’s be honest—every IPL is better when Kohli’s on song. Whether he’s smashing cover drives, charging down the pitch, or celebrating a teammate’s wicket with trademark intensity, Virat brings a kind of energy that’s hard to replicate.
Stay Hooked to IPL 2025 – Bigger, Bolder, Better!
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