Virat Kohli Leads Royal Challengers' IPL 2026 Training Session Virat Kohli emerged as the central figure during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s inaugural training session ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The 37-year-old veteran, a key player for the franchise, kicked off the session at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday with a motivational pep talk for his teammates, who were gathered in a circle. Head coach Andy Flower was present alongside Kohli as the former India captain set the tone for the team’s preparations. Kohli then engaged in an intense batting practice, lasting over an hour, during which he faced a mix of pace and spin bowlers. The session included deliveries from Venkatesh Iyer, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and the spinners led by Krunal Pandya. His aggressive approach saw several powerful shots, with the ball frequently clearing the mid-wicket boundary. The session highlighted his continued dominance at the crease despite his age. The training day took on added significance amid ongoing uncertainties surrounding international travel due to the conflict in the Middle East. England’s Jordan Cox, the only foreign player present, joined Kohli for a lengthy conversation before the latter began his batting session. Cox, known for his attacking style in the top order, was a notable addition to the squad. Notable absences included Rajat Patidar, who led RCB to its first IPL title last year, as well as batting coach Dinesh Karthik and left-arm pacer Yash Dayal. Patidar’s absence was particularly striking given his recent success in the Ranji Trophy. Meanwhile, Karnataka’s Devdutt Padikkal, fresh from a strong performance in the Ranji Trophy, partnered Kohli in the batting nets. The duo’s session was cut short when rain interrupted proceedings, forcing an early halt.#virat_kohli #royal_challengers_bengaluru #m_chinnaswamy_stadium #andy_flower #krunal_pandya
