NEW DELHI: The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and their star player, Virat Kohli, faced another setback as they were eliminated from the IPL 2024 with a four-wicket defeat to the Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator on Wednesday. Despite Kohli’s consistent performances and efforts to lead RCB to victory, the team’s quest for an IPL title remains unfulfilled.
Following the match, former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen suggested that it might be time for Kohli to consider joining another franchise to achieve his dream of winning an IPL trophy. Speaking on Star Sports, Pietersen highlighted that many great athletes in various sports have switched teams to achieve their goals, and Kohli might need to do the same.
“I have said it before and I will say it again — the greats of the game in other sports have left teams to seek glory elsewhere. When he has tried so hard — won the Orange Cap again and done so much for the team, yet the franchise fails again. I understand the commercial value he brings to RCB, but Virat Kohli deserves a trophy. He deserves to play in a team that can help him achieve that,” Pietersen remarked.
Pietersen also pointed to Kohli’s roots in Delhi, suggesting he consider joining the Delhi Capitals. He drew parallels with sports icons like David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Harry Kane, who switched teams to achieve greater success. “I actually think it should be Delhi. Delhi is where Virat needs to go. He can stay at home most of the time, spend more time with his young family, and be close to his roots. Why can’t he go back? Delhi is as desperate for a title as Bengaluru,” he added.
With this victory, the Rajasthan Royals advance to Qualifier 2, where they will face the Sunrisers Hyderabad for a spot in the IPL 2024 final against the Kolkata Knight Riders. Meanwhile, RCB and Kohli are left to reflect on another season ending in disappointment, despite flashes of brilliance from their star player.
