Virat Kohli with former RCB head physio Evan Speechly. (Video grab)

NEW DELHi: Royal Challengers Bengaluru bid an emotional farewell to one of their longest-serving members as former head physio Evan Speechly’s 18-year association with the franchise came to a close, marking the end of a significant chapter in the team’s journey.Speechly, who served RCB from 2008 to 2025, returned to Bengaluru for a special farewell organised by the franchise. The event brought together players and support staff, offering a rare moment to celebrate the contributions of a figure who worked tirelessly behind the scenes through multiple eras of the team.Leading the tributes was Virat Kohli, who shared a deeply personal message reflecting on his long-standing bond with Speechly. The former RCB captain, who has himself been synonymous with the franchise for almost two decades, highlighted not just Speechly’s professionalism but also his human qualities.“I’ve probably spent the most amount of time with you in the RCB setup. You’re one of the OGs. Apart from your hard work and professionalism, the thing that will always stand out is your kindness, care, and integrity. That’s something I’ll always carry with me,” Kohli said.In an emotional continuation, Kohli added, “To say that you’ll always be a part of this family, you always have been, and you always will be. We’ll remember you fondly forever.”WATCH: RCB’s Director of Cricket Mo Bobat also underlined the importance of Speechly’s presence within the setup, emphasising that the farewell was a tribute to years of dedication.

“Evan has been our lead physio for a huge amount of time. We wanted to bring him back to recognise his contribution, spend some time with him, and celebrate everything he’s done for RCB,” Bobat said.Clearly moved by the gesture, Speechly expressed his gratitude and reflected on his deep connection with the franchise. “When I walked into the hotel yesterday, it felt like coming home. So many of us have been here a long time, and RCB has always felt like family,” he said.“Everyone in world cricket would love to spend even one season here, I’ve been fortunate to have had 18. I’ll always feel a part of RCB,” he added.