Kohli's Test retirement evokes pride, not distraction: Mo Bobat
Bengaluru, May 16 (UNI) Royal Challengers Bengaluru's Director of Cricket Mo Bobat on Friday said Virat Kohli's recent retirement from Test cricket has not disrupted the team environment and instead served as a moment of pride for the franchise.
Speaking to reporters on the eve of the match against Kolkata Knight Riders, Bobat said the senior batsman has remained focused on the current campaign with RCB and has not sought any extra attention following his decision to step away from the longest format.
"It's very much business as usual for Virat. He doesn't seek the spotlight. He's solely focused on what we can achieve this season with RCB,' Bobat said.
However, Bobat was effusive in his praise for Kohli's red-ball career, describing it as "remarkable" and "inspirational."
"He should be incredibly proud of what he's done as a Test cricketer. Over 120 matches, nearly 10,000 runs — that's no small feat. His win percentage as captain was close to 60%, and that speaks volumes," Bobat remarked.
Drawing from his own experience within the England cricket structure, Bobat recalled how opposition teams viewed Kohli as a formidable challenge. "No one wanted to play against him. He was always a battle — if he was in form, you knew you were in trouble," he said.
Bobat singled out Kohli's performance during India's 2018 tour of England as a defining moment. "The Edgbaston Test was unforgettable — watching him and Jimmy Anderson go head-to-head like gladiators. That's the level of intensity and brilliance he brought to the game," he said.
While acknowledging the outpouring of tributes from fans — including a gesture where spectators wore white jerseys to honour Kohli's Test legacy — Bobat said the team remains grounded. 'We're all proud of him, and I'm sure the fans will show him plenty of love this week. But for us, and for Virat, it's about staying focused on the job at hand,' he concluded.
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