'I've still got it I guess' - Virat Kohli takes a dig at talks of not playing T20 World Cup 2024

In recent weeks, questions have arisen regarding Virat Kohli’s place in the Indian side for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024. Amidst the chatter, many also doubted if he would take part in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, as he was absent from India's squad due to the birth of his son.

ALSO READ | IPL 2024 - Dropped at 0, RCB's Virat Kohli goes to smash 50 vs PBKS at Chinnaswamy

However, Kohli returned to his team, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), and in their 2nd clash of the IPL 2024, he proved why he is the 'King of Chase'. In the game against Punjab Kings (PBKS), while chasing 176, Kohli scored 77 off 49 balls. His terrific innings saw him win all the major awards, including the Player of the Match award after his side won by 4 wickets.

When asked about how it felt to make a return to cricket after a two-month gap, Kohli cheekily remarked, "I know my name is now attached to just promoting the game in different parts of the world when it comes to T20 cricket. I've still got it, I guess."

This comment comes after many experts stated that Kohli would only be added to the Indian squad for the World Cup because he is the reason cricket is spreading throughout the globe, not for his game.

ALSO READ | IPL 2024 - Did PBKS batters face a tough time against RCB bowlers at Chinnaswamy? Fans have their say

Kohli then added, "Just to feel normal for two months - for me, my family - it was a surreal experience. I 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 recognized."

Kohli also spoke about the crowd at Chinnaswamy and said, "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 have been amazing." He also promised, "That's the promise I can give here - I'll keep turning up and keep trying my best."

Teams:

Punjab Kings (Playing XI): Shikhar Dhawan(c), Jonny Bairstow, Prabhsimran Singh, Sam Curran, Jitesh Sharma(w), Liam Livingstone, Shashank Singh, Harpreet Brar, Harshal Patel, Kagiso Rabada, Rahul Chahar

Subs: Arshdeep Singh, Rilee Rossouw, Tanay Thyagarajan, Harpreet Bhatia, Vidwath Kaverappa

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI): Faf du Plessis(c), Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green, Dinesh Karthik, Anuj Rawat(w), Alzarri Joseph, Mayank Dagar, Mohammed Siraj, Yash Dayal

Subs: Suyash Prabhudessai, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Swapnil Singh.