RCB Podcast with Virat Kohli

Introduction

• Podcast hosted by Danish for RCB, powered by Kotak Mahindra Bank.
• Virat Kohli is the guest.

Key Moments and Memories

Retention and Batting Position

• Ray Jennings and Sid approached Virat during the Champions League in South Africa.
• Decision to retain only Virat for the next year and build a new squad.
• Virat's condition: Bat only at number 3.

Impact of IPL on Virat's Life

• IPL significant for showcasing talent and competing against the best.
• Opportunity to learn from top players around the world.
• Picking brains of other players helped broaden his game.

Becoming a Cricketer

• No regrets about his journey into cricket.
• Maintains a consistent mindset of playing to win.

Day RCB Picked Virat

• Malaysia during the under-19 World Cup when drafts happened.
• Discussed the money cap for under-19 players.
• Initially thought Delhi interested but ended up with RCB.
• Looking back, sees it as a pivotal moment.

2010 RCB Team Overhaul

• Big players let go, team responsibility shifted to Virat.
• Felt empowered and ready, insisted on batting at number 3.

First Memory at RCB

• Launch event at Taj West End, collaboration with a clothing brand.
• Feeling intimidated initially but camaraderie improved with time.

Connection with Bengaluru

• Started early during under-14/15 NCA camps.
• Strong attachment to Bengaluru, calls it home during IPL.
• Favorite hangouts: UB City, Shiro.

Thoughts on Switching Teams

• Has considered it but values loyalty to RCB more.
• Focus on quality of life and loyalty over trophies.

RCB's IPL Title Pursuit

• Disappointments over missed opportunities, eg. 2016 finals.
• Believes lack of courage and clear plans in crunch moments were key issues.

Memorable RCB Eras

• Early era with Anil Kumble, Rahul Dravid was impactful.
• 2011 change with the arrival of AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle.
• 2016 season was particularly special with multiple top performers.

Transformative IPL Stories

• KL Rahul and Yuzvendra Chahal's careers transformed significantly.
• KL Rahul's transition in confidence and performance.
• Chahal flourished in Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Anushka Sharma's Relationship with RCB

• Anushka has a strong connection with Bengaluru, supports RCB loyally.
• Appreciates the mutual respect and family-like environment.

Speciality of IPL

• Brings a refreshing dynamic compared to international cricket.
• Multi-team format offers ongoing stimulation and motivation.
• Opportunities for brands to showcase big international stars together.

Management of Fame, Money, Reputation

• Emphasizes balance and simplicity in life.
• Finds fame exhausting, values personal time and authenticity.
• Credits Anushka for keeping him grounded.

Quality vs Quantity in Cricket

• Decided to step down from captaincy to manage workload and quality of life.
• Values quality execution over quantity.

Role of IPL in Brand Virat

• Enhanced by mixing big names together in campaigns.
• Personal brand value primarily built on international performances.

Personal Challenges and Mindset

• Describes dealing with low confidence phases and staying committed.
• Maintaining work ethic despite internal doubts is crucial.
• Focus on being oneself in all aspects of life.

IPL's Long-term Impact

• Witnessed the evolution of talent through IPL.
• Enjoys seeing and nurturing new talent, values every opportunity IPL provides.