Is winning IPL title at par with test cricket? Virat Kohli's statement will shock you

Virat Kohli retired from test cricket last month.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) outplayed Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs in the final of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. With the win, RCB won their first-ever IPL title. Moreover, Indian batting legend Virat Kohli also added an IPL trophy to his kitty after a wait of 18 years.

Notably, Kohli has been part of RCB since the inaugural edition in 2008. He was also part of the side when they lost the finals in 2009, 2011 and 2016.

However, RCB, led by Rajat Patidar this year, turned the tables to steal the tag of IPL champions. The RCB skipper also dedicated the victory to legend Kohli, who had to wait 18 years for an IPL title. Following the victory, Kohli revealed his perception about winning the IPL title as compared to test cricket triumphs.

It still marks five levels under Test cricket: Virat Kohli on winning IPL trophy

After the match, the RCB opener said that he values test cricket way more than the IPL. Hence, the IPL title victory is one of his best moments in life, but still five levels under test cricket.

“This win is as much for the fans as it is for the team. I’ve given this team my youth, prime and experience. Tried to win it every season, gave it everything I can. Never thought this day would come, was overcome with emotion after we won,” said Kohli.

“You know, this moment (winning IPL) is right up there with the best moments I’ve had in my career. But it still marks five levels under Test cricket. That’s how much I value Test cricket. And that’s how much I love Test cricket,” he further added.

Furthermore, Kohli urged youngsters to treat test cricket with respect as it will attract appreciation from fans all around the world.

“So I would just urge the youngsters coming through to treat that format with respect. Because if you perform in Test cricket, you walk around anywhere in the world, people look you in the eye and shake your hand and say, ‘Well done, you played the game really well,” the former RCB skipper further said.

Kohli announced his retirement from test cricket last month. The right-handed batsman pulled down the curtains after playing 123 games for the Indian Cricket Team. He finished his career as the fourth highest run-scorer for India in the longest format. Kohli will now represent the national team only in ODI cricket.

Meanwhile, the RCB legend gave a wonderful performance in IPL 2025. With 657 runs in 15 games, he ended as the leading run-getter for his team and third overall. He also slammed eight half-centuries in the tournament.

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