Virat Kohli in IPL through the years: The transformation in pictures

One of the few players to have played for just one franchise throughout their IPL career, Virat Kohli has grown alongside the IPL, turning from a tenacious teenager to a modern great in ten years. His career has coincided exactly with the T20 tournament, (he made his international debut after playing in the inaugural season), and owes a lot to the league that help him shape into the star that he is now. 

Apart from the technical and mental changes, Kohli has revamped himself physically as well, and the changes are noticeable throughout his timeline with the RCB.

Here’s a look at Virat Kohli through the ten seasons of IPL:

2008: Chubby-faced teenager

Kohli was acquired by RCB for Rs. 20 Lakh as part of the U-23 quota

Kohli has never been auctioned in the history of the IPL. He was acquired by the Royal Challengers Bangalore for a nominal price of Rs.20 Lakh as part of their U-23 quota, and had no international experience whatsoever.

The chubby face and the somewhat round waistline couldn’t hide the talent, but the intensity and temperament were somewhere lacking.

The season was a big blob on his resume, with 165 runs from 13 games at an average of 15. 

2009: Buried under the big names

In South Africa, Kohli was part of the RCB side that reached the finals.

The Bangalore side managed to reach the finals, courtesy some inspiring team performances, led admirably by Anil Kumble. Amidst the big names that floated in the RCB circles, Kohli, still not a regular in the Indian team got buried, with his performances getting lost under his more illustrious teammates.