IPL 2026: Virat Kohli arrived in Bengaluru on Wednesday for IPL 2026. This season, both Kohli and RCB enter as reigning champions.
Kohli was instrumental in RCB's first IPL title last year, scoring 657 runs with a strike rate of 144.71 and an average of 54.75, including eight fifties. He aims to repeat these heroics as RCB seeks to become the first team to defend an IPL title.
The Rajat Patidar-led side ended their 18-year title drought last season. Patidar led from the front, and now the team will try to replicate their success.
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A KING IN HIS PRIME
Kohli was in sublime form during IPL 2025. After leading India to a 2024 T20 World Cup win, he retired from T20Is and Tests. With limited chances to see him play, each IPL appearance will be significant this season.
Despite being 37, Kohli shows no signs of slowing down. His IPL 2025 performance was exceptional, not just for his age. As one of T20's best, he can anchor or accelerate an innings at will. For a team defending its title, playing Kohli as an opener is highly rewarding.
Kohli's hunger appears unmatched. RCB means more than just a team to him; it's personal.
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CRICKET RETURNS TO CHINNASWAMY
This season promises excitement. The Patidar-led side faces Sunrisers Hyderabad in their opener at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, a match of extra significance given previous uncertainties at the venue.
Following RCB's historic win, a tragic stampede outside the venue left 11 dead and about 40 injured. No matches were held there afterward. Even the Ranji Trophy final was moved to Hubbali for safety.
Now, cricket returns to this iconic venue. Karnataka's cabinet has approved IPL matches here, with the 35,000-capacity stadium meeting all safety standards.
IPL 2026 starts March 28, and Kohli is ready to go.