Former India opening batter Aakash Chopra said that Virat Kohli should be the first player to be retained by Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of the IPL 2025. According to him, Virat could be back as captain for the Bengaluru-based franchise.
RCB made it to the playoffs in IPL 2024 but lost to Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator. Kohli was the Orange Cap winner, having amassed 741 runs in 15 matches.
Chopra opined that Virat should not only be the franchise’s first retention but also get the captain’s armband.
“Virat Kohli is number one on my retention list. RCB need to keep him, and Virat also knows that he will be there. Virat might want to lead the team again, or else the franchise will have to look for a new leader,” he said.
Aakash doesn’t see Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, Lockie Ferguson, and Alzarri Joseph getting retained for the 18th season.
“Faf du Plessis is not getting younger. Glenn Maxwell, Alzarri Joseph, Lockie Ferguson will also be allowed to leave,” he added.