Virat Kohli is back in Bengaluru, and this time he is a part of the defending champions, a sight RCB fans have never experienced before.

Kohli played a key role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic title-winning campaign last season, scoring 657 runs at a strike rate of 144.71 and an average of 54.75, with eight half-centuries. He will be eager to pick up from where he left as RCB attempts to become one of the few teams in recent IPL history to defend their crown successfully.

The last season was memorable for the Bengaluru-based franchise, which ended their 18-year wait for the first IPL trophy. Rajat Patidar emerged as an unexpected hero, guiding the team to glory. The challenge now is to replicate the success.

For Kohli, this period represents the continuation of an exceptional run. Having secured his first T20 World Cup title in 2024 before retiring from both T20 internationals and Test cricket, the IPL remains one of the few stages where fans can watch him consistently. Every innings matters more than ever, and every match carries extra significance.

At 37, Kohli continues to perform at the highest level. His stats last season were remarkable, not just for his age but in any context. He remains one of the most versatile batters in T20 cricket, capable of anchoring innings or accelerate scoring at will. For a team aiming to defend its title, having Kohli at the top of the order provides unmatched assurance.

Kohli’s drive and passion remain undiminished. He has spoken about the personal significance of RCB, underlining that the franchise is more than just a team for him.

Cricket Returns to M Chinnaswamy Stadium

The season opener on March 28 sees RCB take on SunRisers Hyderabad at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The venue carries added significance due to recent events.

In the aftermath of RCB’s title triumph, a stampede outside the venue tragically claimed 11 lives and injured over 40, leading to suspension of the stadium. The Ranji Trophy final featuring Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir was shifted to Hubballi to allow safety enhancements.

Now, cricket is returning to Chinnaswamy with strict safety measures in place, including a 35,000-capacity limit and multi-department oversight.

A new IPL season, a familiar stage, and a champion with something to prove. IPL 2026 kicks off on March 28, and Virat Kohli is ready to deliver.

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