Ricky Ponting Reflects on Virat Kohli's Emotional IPL Journey

Emotional Moments After Punjab Kings' Defeat

Following the loss of Punjab Kings, head coach Ricky Ponting expressed that Virat Kohli's emotional display, kneeling with teary eyes, highlights his intense desire for the IPL title over the past 18 years. This tournament holds significant importance for players. Kohli, unable to contain his emotions during the final moments of the IPL, led his team, RCB, to a historic victory over Punjab Kings by just 6 runs, marking their first title win since the league's inception in 2008.

Ponting remarked after the final that one could see tears in Kohli's eyes during the last over. This moment signifies the weight of the tournament for all players. While teams like Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians have won multiple titles, clinching this tournament is no easy feat. It is as challenging as one might imagine, and becoming the champion of this league is quite difficult.

After the championship win, Kohli advised young cricketers to respect Test cricket, emphasizing its traditional significance. Ponting, drawing from his own experiences, understood the depth of Kohli's sentiments. Kohli shared with broadcasters that this moment ranks among the best of his career, yet he still considers it a step below Test cricket. He holds Test cricket in high regard.

Kohli urged the youth to honor Test cricket, stating that excelling in this format earns respect globally. He encouraged aspiring cricketers to dedicate themselves fully to Test cricket if they wish to gain recognition in the sport.