Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) legend Virat Kohli reacted to the tragic events in Bengaluru during their victory celebrations on Wednesday (June 4). Kohli expressed his sadness as several people lost their lives in a stampede outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

For those unversed, a stampede was reported outside Gate 2 of the Chinnaswamy Stadium as thousands of people gathered at the venue. 11 people have lost their lives in the tragic incident and several others have been injured.

Kohli took to Instagram and shared a post alongside the official statement issued by the franchise. "At a loss for words. Absolutely gutted," wrote Kohli.

RCB and the Karnataka Cricket Assocation (KSCA) have also announced a compensation of Rs. 5 Lakhs for the families of the deceased.

Kohli landed with the RCB team in Bengaluru just hours before the tragedy to celebrate their historic triumph as the franchise lifted the elusive trophy for the first time in history, ending a 17-year wait. This also marked the end of Kohli's wait to lay his hands on the trophy. Despite being the league's top-scorer in history, he had never won the tournament.

Kohli is the only player in IPL history who has played for the same franchise in all 18 seasons. Kohli was part of the RCB team that lost the final in 2009, 2011, and 2016. He also led the Bengaluru-based outfit on a permanent basis from 2013 to 2021.

A controversy has erupted over RCB deciding to continue the programme after the incident but IPL chairman Arun Dhumal has revealed that the officials inside the venue were not aware of the incident.

Kohli addressed the jam-packed crowd at the Chinnaswamy, who eruped with loud cheers as he took hold of the mic.

"So I don't have much time. Let me talk. I am going to start off by repeating what our captain said. It's no more Ee sala cup namde. It's Ee saala cup namdu. We’ve done it, and this win is not just for me and the last 18 years, but for all of you. The fans, the people who have supported us. This is especially for you. The trust and love you all have shown over the years is truly special. I have never seen a fanbase quite like you guys," said Kohli.

The ex-RCB skipper was also all praise for current captain Rajat Patidar.

"When we did our unbox, and we were going to call on our new captain, I had asked and requested you guys to back him and support him. And I said one thing very clearly. He's going to lead us for a long time to come. I want you to give the loudest cheer as he has proven himself. Won the trophy for us. Please welcome our captain, Rajat Patidar," Kohli added

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