Ananya Lohia , New Delhi - Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) CEO Rajesh Menon has expressed confidence that Virat Kohli will continue playing in the IPL for at least the next three to four years, while also hinting at a future association with the franchise even after his playing career ends.

Kohli, the only player to represent a single franchise throughout all 19 IPL seasons, has remained synonymous with RCB since the tournament's inception. His long-awaited dream of winning an IPL title came true in 2025 when RCB clinched their maiden championship. The franchise followed it up with another title in 2026, becoming only the third team after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians to win back-to-back IPL trophies. Menon described Kohli and RCB as “different sides of the same coin” and praised the former captain's immense contribution to the franchise. He suggested that Kohli's relationship with RCB could continue beyond his cricketing career.

Menon also dismissed concerns about Kohli's longevity, pointing to his fitness, hunger and performances. He said the star batter still has plenty to offer and backed him to remain an integral part of the team for several more seasons. Kohli once again led RCB's batting charts in IPL 2026, scoring 675 runs at a strike rate of 165.84 — the highest strike rate of his IPL career. He capped off another memorable season with an unbeaten 75 in the final, helping RCB secure a historic second consecutive title.

With Kohli continuing to perform at the highest level and RCB enjoying unprecedented success, the partnership between the franchise and its biggest icon appears set to remain strong both on and off the field for years to come.