As the 2026 IPL season kicked off, attention was centered on Virat Kohli and his game plan for the tournament. Kohli’s most recent T20 match was in the IPL 2025 final, after which he retired from Test cricket. This season, Kohli has showcased a playing style that fits well with modern T20 cricket.
In the first three games, Kohli maintained a strike rate of over 150, notably going beyond 180 against SRH. He reached a strike rate of 200 against RR. Although he faced a slight setback against MI, struggling to match Phil Salt’s pace, he quickly bounced back in the match against LSG.
Reading the conditions accurately on a challenging wicket different from the usual Chinnaswamy track, Kohli skillfully targeted the bowlers early on, setting the pace for RCB’s innings. Despite being dismissed for 49, his performance significantly contributed to RCB’s five-wicket win.
Post-match, Kohli stressed the significance of intelligent play, recognizing that not every game would have high scores. He highlighted the need to adapt to conditions and situations, emphasizing the importance of playing smart cricket under pressure.
Expressing his efforts to adapt to the modern T20 cricket trends, Kohli stated, “I think I have done okay so far in adapting. Last two games, I haven’t been at my best but always trying to raise the bar.”
Providing an injury update, Kohli revealed that he entered the game against LSG as an impact substitute for RCB due to an ankle issue he experienced in the MI match. He mentioned that he is not fully fit yet and has been under the weather for a few days.
Looking ahead, Kohli expressed disappointment at not finishing the game and mentioned that RCB’s next match is against DC at home on April 18.
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