IPL Turns 18: Virat Kohli — The Last Man Standing From the Inaugural 2008 Match to Feature in RCB vs PBKS Clash

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RCB vs PBKS: As the Indian Premier League (IPL) celebrates its 18th anniversary, one name continues to resonate with the league's origins and enduring legacy - Virat Kohli.

The former India captain and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stalwart will be the only player from the historic inaugural IPL match in 2008 to feature in Friday's clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

From Teen Prodigy to IPL Icon

Kohli's IPL journey began on April 18, 2008, when a young and determined 19-year-old walked out for RCB against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in what would go down as one of the most iconic moments in cricket history. While his debut innings yielded just 1 run, the match was remembered for Brendon McCullum's record-breaking 158*, which set the tone for the IPL's grandeur.

Since then, Kohli has carved an unmatched legacy, becoming the only player to represent the same franchise - RCB - for 18 consecutive seasons. Signed by RCB after leading India to the U-19 World Cup title earlier that year, Kohli has evolved from a rookie batsman to the heart and soul of the Bengaluru-based franchise.

Records, Loyalty, and Longevity

Across 252 IPL appearances, Kohli has amassed a staggering 8,252 runs, the most by any player in IPL history. His 2016 season, where he scored a jaw-dropping 973 runs with four centuries, remains untouched to this day. Through highs and lows, Kohli's commitment to RCB has never wavered, even as other inaugural season players retired or switched franchises.

Now, as the league marks 18 years since its inception, Kohli stands as the last active link to that unforgettable opening night, making his presence in the RCB vs PBKS match more symbolic than ever.

Symbol of the IPL's Journey

Kohli's continued participation is not just a testament to his fitness and form but also to his deep-rooted association with the league that helped shape modern-day franchise cricket. His journey mirrors the IPL's rise from a glitzy start-up tournament to one of the most-watched sporting events in the world.

As RCB takes on PBKS in this 2025 showdown, all eyes will once again be on Kohli - not just for his batting brilliance, but for being the enduring face of the IPL's rich and storied past.