Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru continued their ‘Green Initiative’ tradition as star batter Virat Kohli endured another mixed outing at the crease during their clash against Delhi Capitals at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday.
Kohli scored 19 runs off 13 balls, striking three boundaries, before being dismissed on the very first ball of Lungi Ngidi’s spell. His early departure came during the powerplay, leaving RCB looking to rebuild momentum in the innings.
Green Initiative highlights sustainability goals
Since its introduction in 2011, RCB’s Green Initiative has aimed to promote environmental sustainability by integrating eco-friendly practices into the franchise’s operations. The green jersey symbolises the team’s commitment to carbon positivity, with a focus on measurement, accountability and fan engagement.
Over the years, the initiative has become a key feature of the franchise, drawing attention to environmental awareness while maintaining strong fan connect during these themed matches.
Kohli’s overall record in green jersey
Despite the early dismissal in the latest match, Kohli has delivered several notable performances in the green jersey. Across 15 matches in the special kit, he has scored 432 runs, including one century and three half-centuries.
His contributions underline his consistency as one of RCB’s leading run-scorers over the years, even in matches played under the sustainability banner.
Memorable 2016 century stands out
Kohli’s most iconic performance in the green jersey came in 2016 against the now-defunct Gujarat Lions. In that match, he scored a brilliant 109 off 55 balls, leading RCB to a massive 144-run victory.
The game is also remembered for the record-breaking 229-run partnership between Kohli and AB de Villiers, who scored 129 off 52 deliveries and was named Player of the Match. The partnership remains one of the most celebrated moments in IPL history.
However, Kohli’s record in the green jersey has not been without setbacks, with two golden ducks recorded in 2023 and 2024.
Match situation against Delhi Capitals
In the ongoing contest, Delhi Capitals’ bowling unit kept the scoring in check during the powerplay, restricting RCB to 59 runs. While Phil Salt attempted to accelerate from the other end, Kohli’s early dismissal meant RCB lost a key anchor at the top of the order.
The match reflected the broader inconsistency that has often marked RCB’s performances in the green jersey.
RCB’s overall record in green jersey
Despite individual brilliance from players like Kohli, RCB’s team record in the green kit has been relatively modest. The franchise has managed only five wins in 14 matches, along with one no-result, highlighting challenges in converting performances into victories during these fixtures.
Conclusion
While the Green Initiative continues to reinforce RCB’s commitment to sustainability, performances on the field remain mixed. Kohli’s early dismissal against Delhi Capitals adds to his fluctuating record in the green jersey, even as his overall contributions for the franchise remain significant. As the season progresses, RCB will aim to combine purpose-driven campaigns with consistent on-field success.
Comments are closed.