The 17th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) kicked off with an electrifying clash between two cricketing giants, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The grand opener witnessed a spectacle of cricketing talent and enthusiasm, setting the stage for an exhilarating tournament ahead.

As the IPL opener unfolded, all eyes were on the seasoned campaigners leading their respective teams. For CSK, the legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni made headlines with his decision to hand over the captaincy reins to Ruturaj Gaikwad, marking a significant transition for the franchise.

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Dhoni’s decision to step down as CSK’s captain added intrigue to the tournament opener. With a legacy of astute leadership and tactical acumen, Dhoni’s transition from captain to mentor signalled a new chapter for CSK, with Gaikwad entrusted to carry the team’s illustrious legacy.

Kohli’s Return to Cricket

On the other hand, RCB’s Virat Kohli made a highly anticipated return to competitive cricket after a hiatus, marking his first appearance since the India vs Afghanistan T20I earlier in the year. Kohli’s decision to skip the Test series against England to spend time with his family fueled anticipation for his comeback, with fans eager to witness his prowess on the cricket field again.

Kohli’s Milestones in the IPL Opener

Amidst the excitement of the IPL opener, Kohli etched his name in the annals of cricketing history with a stellar performance that showcased his class and dominance.

During the match against Chennai, Kohli achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Indian batsman to amass 12,000 runs in T20 cricket. His remarkable feat exemplified his stature as one of the most prolific run-scorers in the format, setting new benchmarks with each inning.

Kohli’s T20 Milestones

Kohli’s journey to 12,000 T20 runs underscored his consistency and adaptability as a batsman. With an impressive average of over 40, Kohli stands out as a beacon of excellence in T20 cricket, surpassing several legendary figures to etch his name in the record books.

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Apart from this, after crossing the 15-run mark, Kohli also became the second batter to score 1000 runs against the Chennai-based franchise in the IPL.

As the IPL opener unfolded, Kohli’s stellar performance served as a testament to his enduring impact on the tournament’s rich tapestry.

A closer look at Kohli’s IPL journey reveals a saga of dominance and brilliance. With over 7,000 runs, Kohli is the tournament’s highest run-scorer, showcasing his ability to thrive under pressure and deliver match-winning performances when it matters most.