Virat Kohli invites Chris Gayle to return to IPL as an Impact Player

Virat Kohli hilariously asked Chris Gayle to return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) next year as an Impact Player. Gayle was present in the stands along with other big names like Smriti Mandhana and Anushka Sharma when RCB faced CSK in the IPL 2024 match on Saturday, May 18 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Virat Kohli’s interaction with Chris Gayle

The interaction took place after Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) secured their place in the playoffs following a 27-run win over Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Gayle, who was present in the stands, visited the RCB dressing room to congratulate the team. The players were delighted to see the ‘Universe Boss’, and Kohli seized the opportunity to make a light-hearted request.

“Kaka, come back next year, impact player is on now. You don’t have to field anymore. It’s designed for you,” Kohli said in the video uploaded on the social media handles of RCB. This statement was a reference to the new Impact Player rule in the IPL, which could potentially allow Gayle to return to the field without the need to field.

Chris Gayle’s return to the IPL would be a significant event. Known for his explosive batting and charismatic personality, Gayle has been a crowd favourite throughout his IPL career. He started his IPL journey with Kolkata Knight Riders, moved to RCB, and ended his career with Punjab Kings. During his stint with RCB, Gayle scored 3420 runs in 91 matches, including 21 fifties and five centuries. His return would undoubtedly add an extra layer of excitement to the tournament.

Meanwhile, Kohli himself has been in excellent form in IPL 2024. He is currently the Orange Cap holder with 708 runs at an average of 64.36 and a strike-rate of 155.60. He also leads the list of players hitting the most sixes in the tournament, with 37 sixes in 14 games.

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