Virat Kohli Returns to RCB Camp Ahead of IPL 2025
Days after announcing his retirement from Test cricket, celebrated Indian batter Virat Kohli arrived in Bengaluru to rejoin the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp. This return comes just ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025’s resumption on May 17.
Kohli’s comeback marks his first competitive appearance following his Test retirement. RCB shared his arrival on social media, posting a cheerful photo of him in the team’s training kit. The caption read, "The King is back, with a big bright smile! Time to get down to bold business!"
In a brief video released by RCB, Kohli was seen entering the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for a nets session, demonstrating his batting skills with ease. He showcased fine form, skillfully hitting the ball all around the ground. Before the IPL was put on hold for a week, he had impressive performances, scoring four consecutive half-centuries and accumulating 505 runs across 11 innings, boasting an average of 63.12.
Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar, RCB has achieved eight wins out of 11 matches, currently placing them second in the IPL 2025 points table. They are gearing up to face the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders, on Saturday, which will be Kohli’s first match since his surprising Test retirement.
In a warm gesture, RCB supporters have encouraged fans to wear Test whites during the next home game at Chinnaswamy Stadium, honoring their former captain.
The IPL 2025 season was previously paused due to tensions between India and Pakistan. With the situation now de-escalated, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that the tournament will resume with a revised schedule. RCB will play in the first match of the newly restarted season, and Kohli is expected to bring his trademark flair back to the stadium.
The stadium is likely to be filled to capacity for this crucial game against KKR. After their loss to RCB in the season opener, the Knight Riders now face a crucial challenge as they strive to secure their playoff chances.
