Virat Kohli led a moving tribute to long-serving physio Evan Speechly, celebrating his eighteen-year legacy and unwavering dedication to Royal Challengers Bengaluru since 2008.
BENGALURU
An era came to an emotional end as Royal Challengers Bengaluru bid farewell to their long-serving head physio, Evan Speechly. After a remarkable eighteen-year journey that began in 2008, the man behind the players’ fitness was honored in a special ceremony that celebrated his unwavering loyalty and hard work.
Virat Kohli, who worked alongside Speechly for nearly two decades, led the tributes with a moving speech. Calling Speechly one of the “OGs” of the franchise, Kohli highlighted that beyond professional excellence, it was the physio’s kindness and integrity that left the deepest mark. Kohli emphasized that while roles change, Speechly would forever remain a vital member of the RCB family tree.
The event, organized by the team management, brought together players and staff to recognize a legacy built behind the scenes. Director of Cricket Mo Bobat noted that bringing Speechly back was essential to properly celebrate a man who helped shape the team’s culture across multiple generations.
Speechly was visibly moved by the gesture, stating that walking back into the team hotel felt like returning home. He expressed deep gratitude for his long tenure, noting that while many cricketers dream of spending just one season with Bengaluru, he was fortunate enough to stay for eighteen. As the team moves forward in the tournament, this farewell serves as a powerful reminder that the heart of a franchise lies in the dedicated people who support the stars from the sidelines.