IPL 2026: ‘One of Ogs…’- Virat Kohli showers praise on retiring head physio ahead of LSG vs RCB clash

Amid the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, where the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has been exceptional with six victories in nine encounters at a net run rate of +1.420 to be in second position on the points table, the franchise has suffered a jolt as a core member of the support staff has hung up his shoes from his duties. 

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It has been an emotional moment as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) shared the video on their social media platforms. Evan Speechly, who was the physiotherapist of the side since the very first season in 2008, has ended his job.

Virat Kohli lauds RCB’s former physiotherapist in IPL 2026

Evan was seen delivering an emotional speech as the current captain, Rajat Patidar, presented him with a Seiko Prospex watch, which is priced between INR 40000 and INR 150000.

Virat Kohli, who has been a part of the side from the very first season and led them for a long time, has highlighted the importance of the physiotherapist and lauded Speechly’s contribution in building the team.

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“I probably spend the most amount of time with you, Basu Shankar & Kaka in the RCB setup. You're one of the OGs, apart from your hard work & professionalism, for me, the thing that will always stand out for me is your kindness, care, and your integrity while you worked with us.” Kohli expressed in that video.

“And that is something that I'll always carry with me forever. But to say that you'll always be part of this family, always have been and will always continue to be so & will always remember you fondly forever.” He addressed.

Who is Evan Speechly? Former RCB physio gives emotional speech

Evan reportedly graduated from the University of the Witwatersrand in 1984. Apart from this side, he also worked with Transvaal and Springbok Rugby, South African Soccer Team, Gauteng Men’s Hockey Team, and even India’s cricket side.

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“I must say, when I walked into the hotel yesterday, it felt like I was coming home, as he mentioned, Virat mentioned, he, kaka, Basu, we have been here for a long time. Everybody in world cricket would love to spend at least one season here. All I can say is I still feel I’m part of RCB as I always have. Thank you, everybody, very much.” Speechly added in that emotional video.

He was appointed the physiotherapist of the blue brigade in October 2011. RCB will need to find a suitable replacement as they get ready for their next game against the Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekhana Stadium in Lucknow.