“Am I AM Overseas Player?”: Virat Kohli Slams Social Media Trolls Over London Move

BENGALURU — Virat Kohli has returned and is performing at his best. After leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to their historic first-ever IPL title last season, the “King” returned for the IPL 2026 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) with a match-winning knock that proved his sabbatical in London hadn’t dulled his edge.

However, it wasn’t just his cover drive making waves. Kohli finally addressed the social media “noise” regarding his decision to spend more time in the UK with his family.

1. The “Overseas Player” Quip
   In a viral segment with RCB’s content creator Danish Sait (in his famous Mr. Nags persona), Kohli was asked about the online chatter claiming RCB is effectively playing “five overseas players” because of his frequent stays in London.

The Response: With a trademark half-smile, Kohli shot back: “I don’t know, why are you asking me? Ask the overseas players. I am not an overseas player. Am I an overseas player?”

The Backdrop: Kohli has been increasingly private, shifting his base to London following India’s ODI assignments in January to escape the relentless spotlight in India. He arrived for the IPL with almost no public build-up, yet delivered immediately on the field.

2. “Monkey Off the Back”: Life as a Defending Champion
   For 17 years, the “Ee Sala Cup Namde” slogan was a burden for Kohli. After finally lifting the trophy in his 18th season (2025), he described the emotional release.

The Relief: “I had heard of this statement… ‘monkey off the back.’ That night I really felt what it means. Everything became light,” Kohli admitted.

The Motivation: Far from being satisfied, Kohli noted that the victory felt like a “sense of justice” for nearly two decades of hard work and sacrifice.

3. Kohli’s Philosophy on Victory
   Reflecting on his journey, Kohli provided a deep insight into his mindset as he enters the twilight of his career.

“Victory is the accumulation of hard work… It all comes together as a form of assurance, a reward, to know that you haven’t wasted your time. It gives you motivation to work harder.”

Virat Kohli: IPL 2026 Season Opener Stats

The “London” Controversy: Fact vs. Fiction
Despite the “overseas” jokes from trolls, Kohli remains a central pillar of the Indian national team and RCB.

The Reality: Kohli remains a domestic Indian player under BCCI and IPL rules.

The Impact: His “refresh and return” strategy appears to be working; since January 2026, his average in competitive matches has stayed above 55.00, silencing critics who argued that lack of domestic “match practice” would hurt his form.