RCB Returns to Chinnaswamy Ahead of IPL 2026: Virat Kohli in Top Form, Unbox Event Cancelled
RCB Begins IPL 2026 Preparations in Bengaluru
BENGALURU: After nine months since a tragic homecoming, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) returned to M Chinnaswamy Stadium to kickstart preparations for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, set to begin on March 28.
Fans gathered outside the stadium at 4:30 PM to welcome the team. The training session ended early at 6:30 PM due to rain, after only two hours.
Virat Kohli Steals the Show in Practice
The spotlight was firmly on Virat Kohli, who looked in excellent rhythm right from the start.
The session began with a team huddle led by Kohli and head coach Andy Flower.
Kohli’s batting display included signature lofted shots over midwicket, consistent boundary hitting, and strong timing—indicating promising form ahead of IPL 2026.
RCB Squad Updates: Key Absentees & Arrivals
Several important players were missing from the first training session:
– Rajat Patidar (Captain) – expected to join soon
– Dinesh Karthik (Batting coach)
– Yash Dayal (Left-arm pacer)
Among overseas recruits, only England’s Jordan Cox has arrived so far.
Despite travel disruptions due to tensions in West Asia, director of cricket Mo Bobat has ensured smooth logistics for international players.
Inside the Training Session: Strategy & Performance
Kohli trained alongside Devdutt Padikkal, rotating strike against both pace and spin.
Key highlights:
– No net bowlers were used
– Team relied on in-house bowlers and sidearm specialists
– Kohli dominated spin, especially against Krunal Pandya
– Faced pace attack including Bhuvneshwar Kumar
– New recruit Venkatesh Iyer also bowled
The 37-year-old showed excellent control and intent.
IPL 2026: RCB Match Schedule Overview
RCB will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28 in Bengaluru.
Match breakdown:
– 5 home matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium
– 2 matches scheduled in Raipur
RCB ‘Unbox’ Event Cancelled in 2026
RCB’s popular ‘Unbox’ event will not take place this year.
Possible reasons include a tight preparation schedule and mock drills planned at the stadium on March 23 and 26.
Final Analysis
RCB’s return to Bengaluru signals a fresh start.
Positives:
– Virat Kohli in excellent form
– Strong training intensity
Concerns:
– Key player absences
– Delayed overseas arrivals
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