WATCH: Virat Kohli And Gautam Gambhir Hug Each Other During KKR Vs RCB Match In IPL 2024

BENGALURU: During the strategic interval of the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Bengaluru’s M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli shared a warm embrace, marking a significant moment in the ongoing rivalry between the two teams.

Widely regarded as icons of Indian cricket in the contemporary era, Gambhir and Kohli have been known for their competitive spirits, which sometimes manifested as on-field clashes in the past.

In the history of the IPL, RCB and KKR have squared off against each other 32 times, with KKR holding the edge with 18 victories. Notably, in their recent encounters, KKR has maintained a dominant stance, emerging victorious in four out of their last five matches against RCB.

KKR boasts two IPL titles, secured in 2012 and 2014, while RCB, despite their illustrious presence in the tournament, is yet to clinch the coveted trophy after 16 seasons of participation.

The rivalry between Gambhir and Kohli gained spotlight during an intense on-field altercation following a match between RCB and Lucknow Super Giants, a team Gambhir was mentoring at the time.

Reflecting on his competitive spirit, Gambhir acknowledged RCB’s formidable batting lineup, featuring stars like Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, and AB de Villiers. Despite RCB’s strong presence, Gambhir expressed his desire to achieve victory against them, citing memorable past encounters where KKR emerged triumphant.

“I always considered RCB as a team to beat, even in my dreams. Their flamboyant style, star-studded squad with players like Gayle, Kohli, and de Villiers… despite their lack of silverware, their attitude seemed like they had won it all, and that fueled my determination. If there’s one thing I’d cherish in my IPL career, it’s defeating RCB,” Gambhir remarked passionately.