Former South African wicketkeeper-batter Mark Boucher had a big impact on Virat Kohli, the leading run scorer in the history of the Indian Premier League. In the episode of the RCB Podcast, Kohli revealed how impactful his conversation was with the legendary wicket-keeper.

Reflecting on his chat with Boucher, who had invited him for golf sessions, Virat Kohli recalled, “Among all the players I played with early on, Boucher had the biggest impact on me. He figured out my potential weaknesses and guided me to the next level. He told me, ‘If I come to commentate in India three or four years from now and don’t see you playing for the team, it would be a disservice by you towards your talent.’ His words left me stunned.”

While Virat Kohli was still in the process of establishing himself in international cricket and had not yet made his Test debut for India, Mark Boucher played for RCB from 2008 to 2010. In his 27 appearances for Bengaluru in the IPL, Boucher amassed 388 runs at an average of 29.85, including a half-century.

Virat also spoke about his unwavering commitment to RCB, a franchise he has been associated with since 2008. He emphasized that the “relationship and mutual respect” he shares with the team is important for him.

He added, “The love I’ve received from the fans is something that you can’t compare with a trophy or silverware.”