New Headline: Virat Kohli's Rise Signals India's Next Big Superstar Season in IPL 2026
Virat Kohli has joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of the IPL season, aiming to defend their title. Last season, Kohli was instrumental in RCB's historic win, scoring 657 runs. With only ODIs and the IPL remaining in his career, his appearances hold significant weight, and he continues to perform at an elite level.
Virat Kohli has arrived in Bengaluru well ahead of the upcoming IPL season, joining Royal Challengers Bengaluru as they gear up to defend their title. The star batter was central to RCB’s historic triumph last season, finishing with 657 runs at a strike rate of 144. 71 and an impressive average of 54.
75, including eight half-centuries. His consistency at the top played a huge role in ending the franchise’s long wait for silverware. — Trend_VKohli (@Trend_VKohli) RCB finally broke their 18-year title drought, with Rajat Patidar stepping up as a leader during the campaign.
Having achieved that milestone, the focus now shifts to repeating the success in what promises to be a challenging title defence. Kohli had already retired from T20Is and Tests. With only ODIs and the IPL left, each appearance now carries added significance.
Even at 37, Kohli continues to perform at an elite level. His numbers from last season underline his enduring quality, as he remains one of the most complete batters in the format, capable of both anchoring and accelerating as needed. His recent ODI form further highlights his consistency.