The thrilling encounter between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings in IPL 2024’s sixth match witnessed RCB securing a resounding victory at the vibrant M Chinnaswamy Stadium. This win not only highlighted the prevailing dominance of home teams in the seventeenth edition of the IPL but also marked RCB’s confident start as they strive for their inaugural championship title.

Virat Kohli, RCB’s formidable batsman, showcased his prowess with a match-winning 77 against Punjab Kings. Reflecting on his two-month hiatus, during which his wife, Anushka Sharma, gave birth to their second child, Kohli expressed gratitude for the invaluable family time. He cherished the anonymity experienced abroad, away from the public gaze, describing it as a surreal experience.

“We were not in the country. We were at a place where people were not recognizing us. Just time together as a family, just to feel normal for two months, for me, for us as a family, it was a surreal experience,” shared Virat Kohli during the post-match presentation ceremony.

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Embracing the transition to parenthood for the second time, Kohli emphasized the significance of bonding with his older child and cherished the divine opportunity to spend quality time with his family.

“Of course, having two kids, things become totally different from a family perspective. So just the ability to be together, the connections that you make with your older child, it’s amazing. I couldn’t have been more grateful to God for the opportunity that I got to spend time with my family,” added Virat Kohli.

Acknowledging the unwavering support from RCB fans, especially in Bengaluru, where he has been an integral part of the franchise since its inception, Kohli emphasized the essence of creating lasting memories over statistical achievements on the field. Quoting Rahul Dravid, India’s head coach, Kohli underscored the joy of playing alongside teammates for the fans.

“When you play, you play your heart out because you’re going to miss these times when you’re with your friends in the change room playing in front of fans,” remarked Virat Kohli, echoing Dravid’s sentiments.

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Kohli’s stellar performance earned him the Player of the Match award, equalling former CSK captain MS Dhoni’s record tally of 17 such accolades in IPL history. As RCB embarks on their journey, they aim to maintain their winning momentum against Kolkata Knight Riders in their upcoming fixture on Friday, March 29.