Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) marked the end of an era on a deeply emotional note as former Head Physio Evan Speechly bid farewell to the franchise after an extraordinary 18-year association spanning from 2008 to 2025. Known as one of the most trusted behind-the-scenes figures in the RCB setup, Speechly’s departure brought together players, staff, and management for a heartfelt celebration of his long-standing contribution to the team.
The franchise organised a special farewell in Bengaluru, bringing Speechly back to the city where he spent nearly two decades shaping player recovery, fitness routines, and medical support systems across multiple seasons. Over the years, he became an integral part of the RCB family, working closely with several generations of cricketers and earning immense respect within the dressing room.
Leading the tributes was Virat Kohli, who reflected on the personal bond he shared with Speechly throughout his RCB journey. Kohli spoke with visible emotion, highlighting both professional respect and personal affection for the physio.
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“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. “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.”
RCB’s Director of Cricket Mo Bobat also acknowledged Speechly’s long-standing impact on the franchise, emphasizing the importance of his role behind the scenes.
“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.
An emotional Evan Speechly responded by expressing gratitude and reflecting on his long association with the franchise, calling RCB his second home.
“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. 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 said.
Speechly’s nearly two-decade-long tenure saw him work closely with players through injuries, comebacks, and defining moments of the franchise’s journey. His role extended beyond medical support, as he became a constant presence in the dressing room culture and a familiar figure in RCB’s evolving story.
As the franchise continues to build towards its future, Speechly’s farewell served as a reminder of the unseen contributors who shape a team’s identity just as much as the players on the field.
