Over the past year, this discussion has gained momentum on social media, especially as Kohli has been representing RCB – the only IPL franchise he has played for since the inception of the league. As IPL 2026 begins, the discussion resurfaced, prompting Kohli to respond during an informal chat with the franchise.
Instead of giving serious explanations, Kohli handled the situation in his typical style – a mix of confidence and humour.
Why did the ‘foreign player’ tag start trending on Virat Kohli?
The origins of this debate can be traced back to 2024, when Kohli and his family relocated to London following the birth of his son, Akay. Since then, he has been spending considerable time in the United Kingdom, traveling back to India mainly for cricket commitments.
This lifestyle change sparked a wave of jokes online, with some fans quipping that Kohli should be counted as an ‘overseas player’ for RCB due to his extended stay abroad. The narrative, though primarily humorous, began to gain momentum as the IPL season approached.
Some also questioned his involvement and commitment, despite Kohli’s consistent presence and performances for the franchise. The idea of him being considered as the ‘fifth foreign player’ became a trending discussion topic that mixed humor and curiosity.
However, for those who have followed his career closely, this suggestion has always been no more than an amusing exaggeration.
Kohli’s humorous reaction and thoughts on IPL glory
Kohli finally touched on the topic during a fun segment with RCB’s in-house host Danish Sait, who appeared in his popular ‘Mr Nogs’ persona. Playing with the online narrative, Sait joked: “People are saying that RCB is playing with five foreign players, I really don’t understand what they are saying.”
Kohli, without any delay, replied smilingly: “I don’t know, why are you asking me? Ask foreign players. I’m not a foreign player. Am I a foreign player?”
His response immediately struck a chord with fans, not only for its humor but also for the frankness that accompanied it. By turning the question around in a funny way, Kohli reasserted his identity while completely debunking the debate.
Apart from the banter, the conversation also discussed a more emotional topic – RCB’s long-awaited IPL victory in 2025. After years of near failures, the franchise finally won its first title, and for Kohli, it was a profound personal milestone.
Reflecting on that moment, he said: “I had heard about this statement or this saying, four years, getting the monkey off the back. That night I really felt what it meant. Everything became lighter.”
It was the end of a wait of 18 seasons for Vijay Kohli, who has been the face of the franchise since its inception. It wasn’t just about winning a trophy – it was about recognition.
he adds: “Victory is the accumulation of all the hard work, of all the sacrifices you have made… It all comes together as a reassurance, a reward, to know that you did not waste your time.”
