As Royal Challengers Bengaluru gear up for a crucial clash against Kolkata Knight Riders on May 17, all eyes are naturally drawn to Virat Kohli — but not for the reasons one might expect. Despite the nationwide buzz following his surprise retirement from Test cricket on May 12, Kohli remains laser-focused on the task at hand: helping RCB clinch a playoff spot in IPL 2025.

During the pre-match press conference, Mo Bobat, RCB’s Director of Cricket addressed Kohli’s mindset, stating that the former India skipper isn’t seeking any additional attention. “Virat’s just business as usual,” Mo Bobat remarked. “There’s already enough public and media focus on him — he doesn’t want more. He’s extremely ambitious about what we’re trying to achieve this season with RCB.”

Mo Bobat, who joined RCB after his stint with the England team, also paid tribute to Kohli’s remarkable red-ball career.

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“He should be incredibly proud of what he’s done for India in Test cricket. We, as a franchise, are proud of all our players when they represent India, but especially Virat. His contributions to the longest format are legendary.”

Reflecting on his days with England, Bobat fondly recalled watching Kohli’s iconic battles in Test cricket. “He was always the one wicket you desperately wanted. If he was in or about to walk in, you knew you had a problem,” Bobat said.

“One of my favorite memories is from the 2018 Edgbaston Test, watching James Anderson and Kohli go toe-to-toe like true gladiators. Anderson bowled nine straight overs at him — it was thrilling.”

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As the tournament enters its final stretch, RCB stand on the cusp of playoff qualification, and a win against KKR would seal the deal. But for fans, this fixture is about more than just points. It’s a celebration of a cricketer who, even after stepping away from Test cricket, continues to inspire — not with words or farewells, but with a bat in hand and focus unwavering.