Virat Kohli: The Un-Auctioned Star of the IPL
Virat Kohli, the batting maestro and former captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), holds a unique distinction in the Indian Premier League (IPL): he has never been sold in an IPL auction. This intriguing fact stems from his early association with RCB, which dates back to the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008.
As a young emerging player, Kohli was not eligible to participate in the inaugural IPL auction. Instead, he was selected by RCB through a pre-season draft, recognizing his exceptional talent showcased in the U-19 World Cup. RCB’s decision to retain Kohli over the years has kept him from entering the IPL auction.
Kohli’s loyalty to RCB and their unwavering trust in his abilities have fostered a strong relationship. The IPL allows teams to retain a certain number of players ahead of each auction, and Kohli has been a constant fixture in RCB’s retained list. His consistent performances and leadership qualities have made him indispensable for the franchise.
As captain, Kohli guided RCB to four playoff appearances, showcasing his tactical acumen and ability to inspire his team. While the elusive championship remained out of reach, Kohli’s individual accomplishments in the IPL are remarkable. He is the tournament’s all-time leading run-scorer with 8004 runs in 252 matches, boasting an impressive average of 38.67.
Kohli’s 2016 campaign was particularly memorable, as he amassed a staggering 973 runs, setting the record for the most runs scored in a single IPL season. His exceptional batting prowess is further highlighted by his unparalleled feat of scoring 8 centuries in the tournament, more than any other player.
The combination of Kohli’s consistent performances, leadership role, and marketability made him indispensable for RCB. The franchise has always prioritized his retention, preventing him from entering the IPL auction. Kohli’s dedication to RCB and his deep connection with the fans have ensured that he remains one of the few players in IPL history never to have been auctioned, making his journey unique and significant in the league’s history.
