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Indian batting great Virat Kohli spoke about the super-passionate fanbase of the Royal Challengers Bangalore, who always go above and beyond to support their Indian Premier League franchise. With the IPL 2024 season less than a month away, the schedule for the first phase of the tournament was released, which confirmed that the Bangalore-based franchise will kick off the 2024 season against defending champions Chennai Super Kings.
Throughout the IPL's 17-year history, the Royal Challengers haven't won the tournament even once, but still, the team possess one of the most emotional and passionate fanbases in the entire league. Speaking about this constant support, Virat Kohli delved into his connection with fans and the city of Bengaluru.
More valuable than any piece of silverware: Kohli on support for RCB
In a chat with Star Sports, Kohli said, "Every time I've been retained by RCB, I couldn't see myself being in any other franchise, playing for anyone else. For me, the loyalty that the fans have shown me, the faith, the love over so many years is way more valuable to me than any piece of silverware."
"And that is something that's a very rare thing to experience. So I feel very fortunate that I've been able to form such a deep connection with the city that I'm not even born in. It feels absolutely like home. I won't even say second home. And that is a testimony to their sporting intelligence. It is not a random fan base. It has not happened for one season. It's been happening season after season.
I see the same with football as well: Kohli on fans in Bengaluru
Further in his chat, Virat Kohli also gave the example of the Indian Super League side, Bengaluru FC, who also have a similar passionate fan following. Kohli then praised how the people of Bengaluru express a lot of care and support for their teams, which makes playing for a team in this city special.
Kohli said, "And I see the same with football as well. In the ISL as well. The fans in the city are amazing. Like how they get behind their players. It is all about awareness and that intent. which the people have here. They have an intent to care about their teams, which is the most special thing for me. So I can't wait to be playing in front of them again."