Virat Kohli Praises RCB Fans; Says 'Cricket Is About Memories With Fans And Not Numbers'

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Virat Kohli reminded the cricket world of his batting skills once again as the former India captain blasted a 49-ball 77 in Royal Challengers Bangalore's win over Punjab Kings at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Tuesday (March 25).

Virat Kohli was duly awarded the man of the match at the presentation ceremony for his innings and he was met with loud cheers from the crowd; prompting presenter Harsha Bhogle to ask about his love affair with the Bangalore fans.

"It's been going on for years (love story with fans at Chinnaswamy). People talk about a lot of other things when you play sport - achievement, stats, numbers. But when you look back it's the memories you create. The love, appreciation and backing I've received has been amazing," said Virat Kohli.

The 35-year-old batter held on to his end after opening the chase of 177 runs with Faf du Plessis while wickets tumbled around him. Kohli eventually fell in the 17th over to Harshal Patel but Dinesh Karthik and Mahipal Lomror got the job done with four wickets left and two balls left.

"I try to give the team a blazing start, but if wickets fall you have to assess. Wasn't the usual flat pitch. Disappointed I couldn't finish the game. Was in the slot but sliced it to deep point. They know I play the cover drive well, so they're not going to allow me to hit gaps. You have to come up with a game plan here and there," said Kohli.

The former India and RCB captain further spoke of the two months he spent with his family away from the country before his second child's birth.

"I've still got it I guess. Just to feel normal for two months - for me, my family - it was a surreal experience. Couldn't have been more grateful to God for the opportunity to spend time with the family. It's an amazing experience to just be another person on the road and not be recognised. That's the promise I can give here - I'll keep turning up and keep trying me best," he said.