Bengaluru (Karnataka), May 2: Star Indian batter and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) icon Virat Kohli has opened up about the profound early influence of former South African wicketkeeper Mark Boucher on his cricketing journey, revealing that Boucher’s advice “stunned” him during his formative IPL years.
Speaking on an upcoming episode of the RCB Podcast, a teaser of which was shared on the franchise’s official X handle, Kohli recalled Boucher’s unexpected mentorship. “Out of all players I played with initially, Boucher had the biggest impact on me. He figured out what my weaknesses could be… without me even asking,” Kohli said. “He told me, ‘If I come to India three-four years from now and don’t see you playing for the national team, you’d be doing a disservice to yourself.’”
Boucher, who played for RCB from 2008 to 2010, was nearing the end of his international career just as Kohli was beginning his rise. The South African stalwart’s insight left a lasting impression on the young Indian batter, who had not yet debuted in Test cricket at that time.
Kohli also reaffirmed his deep-rooted commitment to RCB, a franchise he has represented since the IPL’s inception. “The relationship and mutual respect I have with this franchise is more valuable than any trophy. The love I’ve received from RCB fans — no silverware can match that,” he said.
On his recent retirement from T20 internationals, Kohli explained that the decision was a strategic one to make way for a younger core to evolve. “It was taken with clarity. These players need two full years to handle pressure, conditions across the world, and be ready when the next World Cup arrives.”
Despite stepping back from international T20s, Kohli’s IPL 2025 form remains stellar. With 443 runs in 10 innings at an average of 63.28 and a strike rate of nearly 139, he stands third on the list of top run-scorers this season. His best score so far is an unbeaten 73, with six fifties to his name.
RCB is in a strong position on the points table, placed second with seven wins and three losses, and will face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a much-anticipated clash at home on Saturday.