Kohli Back in the Mix: Royal Challengers Bengaluru Star Prepares for IPL 2026
The iconic Virat Kohli has officially rejoined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) camp, signalling his readiness for the upcoming 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The star batter was seen honing his skills in the nets for the very first time in preparation for the highly anticipated IPL 2026. The defending champions, RCB, are set to kick off their campaign on March 28th against the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the hallowed turf of the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Kohli arrived in the Garden City on March 18th and wasted no time in getting down to business. Footage from the practice session showed him unleashing powerful strokes and demonstrating complete command over his game. The seasoned campaigner was observed taking on the bowlers from the outset, unafraid to go for big shots. He also showcased his tactical acumen by staying deep in the crease, enabling him to loft the ball over the infield – a clear indication of his versatility and ability to adapt his game according to the situation.
The net session wasn’t just about Kohli; several other prominent players were also present, gearing up for the challenges ahead. Among those seen in action were Krunal Pandya, Devdutt Padikkal, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Notably, captain Rajat Patidar had not yet joined the squad at the time of this report.
Last season, Virat Kohli was in blistering form, amassing an impressive 657 runs from 15 matches. He achieved this with a formidable strike rate of nearly 145, which included a remarkable eight half-centuries. This consistent run-scoring further cemented his reputation as one of the most reliable batsmen in the T20 format.
While Kohli has stepped away from T20 internationals to focus on other formats, his recent performances in One Day Internationals (ODIs) suggest he is far from losing his touch. His outings against South Africa and New Zealand in the ODI arena were particularly noteworthy. Against the Proteas, he compiled a staggering 302 runs across three matches, boasting an outstanding average of 151 and a strike rate of 117.05. This included two centuries and a half-century. Similarly, in the three-match series against New Zealand, he accumulated 240 runs at an average of 80 and a strike rate of 105.26, which also featured a century and a fifty.
The RCB management and fans alike will be eagerly anticipating Kohli to bring his “A-game” to IPL 2026. He is expected to play a pivotal role at the top of the batting order, setting the tone for the team and providing crucial stability and firepower. His experience and ability to perform under pressure will be invaluable as RCB aims to defend their title.
The anticipation for IPL 2026 is palpable, and with Virat Kohli back in the thick of things, the tournament promises to be as thrilling as ever. His presence alone is a massive boost for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and his net sessions offer a tantalising glimpse of the explosive batting that fans can expect in the coming weeks. The team will be looking to leverage his form and leadership as they embark on their quest for a second consecutive IPL trophy. The blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent within the RCB squad, spearheaded by Kohli, makes them a formidable contender once again.
