Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 6: Former Indian cricket captain and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stalwart Virat Kohli has revealed that the burden of leadership over nearly a decade eventually became overwhelming, prompting his decision to step away from captaincy.
In a candid conversation on the RCB Podcast – Mindset of a Champion, Kohli reflected on the intense scrutiny and constant pressure that came with being both the national and franchise captain.
"At one point, it became really tough. I was captaining India for 7-8 years and RCB for 9 years. On top of that, expectations from me as a batter in every single game were always high. Even when I wasn't leading, the focus never shifted away from me," Kohli said.
“I was under the spotlight 24x7. It got exhausting. That’s why I stepped down. I realized that for me to continue enjoying the game and giving my best, I needed to find happiness again and escape the constant judgment about what I would achieve next,” he added.
Kohli, 36, emphasized that his loyalty and bond with RCB run deeper than just winning titles. “This franchise has given me everything, and the connection I have with the fans—win or lose—means far more than silverware,” he stated. “That love stays with you forever. A trophy is fleeting, but this support lasts a lifetime.”
Reflecting on his early days, Kohli credited former South African cricketer Mark Boucher for helping him confront a key weakness in his game. “Boucher identified my struggles with the short ball even before I asked for feedback. He told me, ‘You’ll never make it in international cricket if you can’t pull.’ He worked with me constantly. His words stuck with me—he said if he came back to India in four years and didn’t see me playing, I’d be letting myself down.”
Kohli also spoke about his initial entry into the Indian team and the pivotal roles played by coach Gary Kirsten and captain MS Dhoni.
“I wasn’t the most talented player. But I had fierce determination. I wanted to help my team win at any cost. That’s what got me noticed,” he said. “Gary and MS believed in me. They told me clearly—‘We want you at No. 3. Your energy and presence matter. Play with intensity.’ I wasn’t seen as a natural match-winner, but they backed my fight and commitment.”
From his rise as U-19 World Cup-winning captain in 2008 to becoming one of cricket's most iconic figures, Kohli’s journey has been defined by grit, leadership, and emotional transparency—qualities that continue to endear him to fans worldwide.