IPL 2025: Virat Kohli reveals how intense pressure, ego checks and high-stakes moments shaped him after 18 seasons with RCB
RCB star Virat Kohli shared how IPL has pushed him mentally, how he puts the team before ego, and why adaptability is key. Speaking on JioHotstar, the 36-year-old highlighted how the tournament helped him grow as a selfless leader and a better T20 player
In his 18th straight IPL season, Virat Kohli isn¡¯t just stacking up runs for Royal Challengers Bengaluru¡ªhe¡¯s redefining the mindset needed to survive and thrive in one of the toughest T20 leagues. As RCB continues their strong campaign in IPL 2025, Kohli¡ªalready with two half-centuries¡ªreflected not on his records, but on how pressure, selflessness, and game awareness have shaped his cricket journey.
Not about ego, always about the game
Kohli made it clear that his batting decisions are always shaped by the match situation¡ªnot personal pride. In conversation with JioHotstar he recalled past instances, including a Champions Trophy match, where he willingly stepped aside when a teammate like Shreyas Iyer was better placed to take the lead. For him, the goal has never been to outshine others but to read the moment and respond accordingly. ¡°If I¡¯m in rhythm, I¡¯ll take charge. If not, someone else steps up. It¡¯s never about trying to prove anything,¡± Kohli shared.
How IPL built mental strength
Virat Kohli | Credit: X
The legendary batter also spoke about how the IPL¡¯s ever-shifting nature makes it one of the most mentally demanding tournaments. He explained that unlike bilateral series, the IPL's long format and points-table fluctuations create multiple pressure points. Kohli noted that whether a team is leading, lagging behind, or sitting somewhere in the middle, the pressure is different¡ªbut constant. He admitted these challenges have helped him evolve both technically and mentally.
Growth over glory: The Kohli philosophy
Even as one of IPL¡¯s biggest names, Kohli emphasised that his focus is on adapting and growing rather than chasing glory. He acknowledged that the league¡¯s demands push players to evolve quickly, especially in T20s where one mistake can cost the match. For Kohli, the real success lies in responding to those moments the right way, not necessarily in being the top scorer.
In a league known for glamour and records, Kohli¡¯s message stands out¡ªfocus on the team, respect the moment, and never stop evolving. Whether it's his selfless mindset or mental toughness, Virat Kohli continues to inspire with more than just his bat.
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Nancy Jaiswal is a journalist who started her career in reporting and has covered both hard and soft news. From serious city news developments to lighthearted lifestyle pieces, she has written on almost everything hapenning in India (except maybe alien invasions¡ªyet!). For her, writing isn¡¯t just work; it¡¯s a passion, an obsession, and sometimes the reason she forgets to reply to texts.
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