Bengaluru: Virat Kohli delivered a stirring pep talk to Royal Challengers Bengaluru players as the defending champions began preparations for the Indian Premier League 2026 season at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Addressing the squad ahead of their first training session, Kohli emphasised the need for complete focus and commitment, warning that the challenge would only intensify after their title-winning campaign.
Kohli calls for intensity and discipline
In a video shared by the franchise, Kohli urged players to maximise every moment during the tournament.
“We worked really hard over the last two to three seasons to achieve what we did last year. It’s only going to get tougher because other teams are going to come hard at us,” he said.
He added, “Let’s not waste even a minute of any session. We must give our 120% for these two and a half months.”
Kohli also highlighted the importance of mental sharpness, noting that sustained success requires players to remain switched on at all times.
Fresh faces welcomed into the squad
Head coach Andy Flower welcomed the new additions to the squad, underlining the balance between experienced campaigners and emerging talent.
Among those introduced were Venkatesh Iyer, Jordan Cox, Kanishk Chouhan, Vihaan Malhotra, Vicky Ostwal and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
Flower made a special mention of Kanishk Chouhan and Vihaan Malhotra for their contribution to India’s Under-19 World Cup triumph, calling it a “great effort”.
Return to Chinnaswamy excites camp
The team’s training session marked a return to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, which has not hosted major cricket matches since the conclusion of the previous IPL season.
Flower expressed optimism about reconnecting with fans at the iconic venue. “Our first two games are here, and it’s an amazing opportunity to be welcomed by our supporters,” he said.
He also praised the playing conditions, noting that the outfield looked “lush, green and beautiful”, providing ideal conditions ahead of the new campaign.
Experienced stars lead by example
Flower highlighted the value of experienced players in setting standards during practice sessions. He singled out Kohli and Bhuvneshwar Kumar as exemplary professionals whose work ethic sets the tone for the rest of the squad.
“From a professional point of view, it’s brilliant watching masters of the art like Virat and Bhuvi go about their work,” he said.
Their presence, he added, plays a crucial role in mentoring younger players and maintaining high performance standards within the team.
Focus on defending the title
Having clinched their maiden IPL title last season, Royal Challengers Bengaluru now face the challenge of defending their crown in a highly competitive tournament.
Kohli’s message reflects the team’s intent to stay ahead of rivals by maintaining intensity both on and off the field. With a mix of seasoned stars and promising youngsters, RCB will look to build on their recent success.
Conclusion
As the IPL 2026 season approaches, Kohli’s galvanising words have set the tone for RCB’s preparations. The emphasis on discipline, mental strength and consistent effort underscores the team’s determination to remain at the top.
Whether the defending champions can replicate their success will depend on how effectively they translate this early momentum into performances when the tournament begins.
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