“It’s Never About Ego”: Virat Kohli Opens Up on Leadership, Milestones, and Match Awareness

RCB Star Virat Kohli Reflects on Team-First Mindset After Reaching 13,000 T20 Runs, Stresses Game Awareness Over Personal Glory

New Delhi, April 9: Former India captain and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ace Virat Kohli has emphasized that his on-field decisions—whether as a leader or player—are guided purely by match situations, not personal ambition or ego.

Speaking on ‘18 Calling 18’ on JioCinema, Kohli reflected on his approach to leadership and teamwork. “It’s never been about trying to overshadow anyone or proving something. If I was in rhythm, I naturally took the initiative. But if someone else was better placed to lead, I stepped back. It’s about reading the game, understanding what the team needs, and playing accordingly,” Kohli explained.

Citing examples from past tournaments, including the Champions Trophy, Kohli pointed out how he encouraged teammates like Shreyas Iyer to take charge when the moment was right. “There’s no ego. I take pride in adapting to what the situation demands.”

Kohli’s comments came shortly after reaching a historic milestone — becoming the first Indian and only the fifth cricketer globally to cross 13,000 T20 runs. The feat was achieved during RCB’s recent clash against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede, where Kohli smashed a fluent 67 off 42 balls, featuring eight boundaries and two sixes at a strike rate of 159.52.

So far in IPL 2025, the RCB stalwart has scored 164 runs in four matches, averaging 54.66 with a strike rate of 143+, including two half-centuries.

In total, Kohli has played 403 T20 matches, scoring 13,050 runs at an average of 41.56, including nine centuries and 99 fifties. His best T20 score remains *122.

Kohli is now inching closer to T20 legend Chris Gayle, who remains the format’s top scorer with 14,562 runs, 22 centuries, and a highest score of *175.

Kohli’s explosive fifty against Mumbai also ranks among his fastest in IPL history, reaffirming his elite form as RCB eyes its maiden title in IPL 2025. With what many consider their strongest squad yet, RCB will next take on Delhi Capitals tonight in Delhi.