Mumbai: Critics might say that IPL is adding to the players’ burden in a packed international calendar but Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli on Sunday said the T20 event actually helps them relax and enjoy themselves.
“The more we enjoy cricket, it will be that much better in IPL. In IPL there is a lot of enjoyment of players. Everybody is relaxed coming from international schedule. There is a good atmosphere and we will try to utilise it,” said the 25-year-old at the team’s jersey launch event.
Kohli, on a high after being named the player of the tournament in the recently-concluded World Twenty20, said he is aiming to take RCB to its maiden IPL title this season.
“This time around we will hope to go few more steps ahead and actually get that trophy. We have added a few more quality players in the side and I am sure we will come out with flying colours,” he said.
“We try every year to win and we have a strong team. We will try to win the trophy because we have got a good combination this time and we will try to utilise it and try to win the trophy,” he added.
The star batsman was in a hurry and did not take too many questions, citing his packed schedule.
“I need to leave for the airport. I need to go play the IPL. If you don’t want to see me in the IPL then that that is a different story. I need to leave in five minutes otherwise I will miss my flight,” he said.
The Bangalore franchise has roped in Chinese telecom equipment maker Huawei as their principal sponsor.
“It is an honour for me and RCB as well, to be associated with Huawei and as you all know, it is associated with some of the major sporting companies all around the world and for RCB to have them as a sponsor is a huge honour. We are looking forward to that partnership and hopefully we both can grow together.
“Hopefully this year would be RCB’s year. Having Huawei on the shirt, and maybe the lucky logo that we needed for the last few years. Just really excited and looking forward to the IPL as well. We have a great team, great bunch of guys ready to perform well. We do well every year, we excite a lot of people in the IPL,” Kohli said.
The Royal Challengers Bangalore would play their first match against Delhi Daredevils on April 17 in Sharjah.
