The new IPL season is about to begin and the defending champions are preparing for another challenging campaign. Ahead of the opening match of IPL 2026, Virat Kohli shared a strong message with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad.
Kohli believes every team will try harder against RCB because they are now the defending champions. He asked his teammates to stay focused and give their best effort during training and matches.
Kohli’s Message to the RCB Squad
Before the first practice session at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Kohli spoke to the team about the challenges ahead.
He explained that other teams will come aggressively against RCB and the squad must be ready for that pressure. According to Kohli, players need to give full commitment in every training session and every match.
He reminded the team that their success last season came after years of hard work. That effort must continue if they want to defend their title.
Key Points From Kohli’s Message
| Focus Area | Message |
|---|---|
| Training intensity | Use every practice session effectively |
| Match approach | Stay focused from the first game |
| Team effort | Every player must give full commitment |
| Defending champions | Expect stronger competition |
Kohli also said the players are excited about the new season and ready to face the challenge.
RCB Enter IPL 2026 as Defending Champions
Royal Challengers Bengaluru won their first IPL title in 2025, ending a long wait for the franchise.
Two players played a major role during that successful campaign. Rajat Patidar delivered strong batting performances, while Kohli provided leadership and consistency throughout the season.
In the final match against Punjab Kings, Kohli was named Player of the Match, helping RCB secure the championship.
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RCB 2025 Title Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Champions | Royal Challengers Bengaluru |
| Final opponent | Punjab Kings |
| Key performers | Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar |
| Significance | First IPL title for RCB |
Because of that victory, RCB will now begin IPL 2026 as defending champions for the first time.
Andy Flower on the Team’s Balance
Head coach Andy Flower has expressed confidence in the squad ahead of the new season.
He believes the team now has a good mix of experienced players and fresh talent. According to Flower, the IPL auction brought some exciting new additions who will strengthen the squad.
Flower also pointed out a new star symbol on the team jersey, which represents RCB’s championship win. He described it as a proud moment for the team and its supporters.
IPL 2026 Opening Match
The IPL 2026 season will start with a high-profile match between RCB and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Opening Match Details
| Match | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|
| RCB vs Sunrisers Hyderabad | M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru | March 28 |
This opening match will set the tone for RCB’s title defense.
The team enters the new season with confidence but also understands the pressure that comes with being champions.
RCB will rely on experienced leaders like Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar while also giving opportunities to new players who joined the squad recently.
| Factor | Importance |
|---|---|
| Strong leadership | Helps maintain team confidence |
| Balanced squad | Mix of experienced and new players |
| Home advantage | Opening match in Bengaluru |
| Early momentum | Important for defending the title |
If the team starts strongly and maintains consistency, RCB could once again become a strong contender for the IPL trophy.
