Star Indian batter Virat Kohli has officially begun preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 season, building excitement among fans ahead of the tournament’s schedule announcement. A day after Devajit Saikia confirmed that the first 20 matches of IPL 2026 would be revealed within a few days, Kohli gave supporters a glimpse of his training routine through a viral Instagram post.
Currently based in London, Virat Kohli shared a short video on Instagram showing him working on his batting in the indoor practice facility at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. The clip quickly gained traction on social media, with fans thrilled to see the former India captain already gearing up for another IPL campaign. Kohli kept the caption simple and direct — “IPL 2026” — signalling the start of his preparations for the much-anticipated season.
Kohli, who represents the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, remains one of the most important figures for the franchise. The Bengaluru-based side will enter the new season as defending champions and will aim to become only the third team in IPL history to retain the title after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.
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The 36-year-old last appeared in competitive cricket on January 18, 2026, during a match against the New Zealand national cricket team in Indore. With less than three weeks remaining before the IPL begins, Kohli has wasted no time getting back into rhythm.
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Statistically, Kohli continues to dominate the IPL record books. He remains the league’s highest run-scorer and was also RCB’s leading run-getter during their successful 2025 campaign. Naturally, expectations will once again be high as the franchise looks to defend its crown.
In IPL 2026, RCB will play five of their home matches at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The remaining two home fixtures are scheduled to take place at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium.
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Reports also suggest that the tournament opener could feature a blockbuster clash between RCB and Chennai Super Kings at Chinnaswamy Stadium. The venue is also expected to host the second qualifier and the final of IPL 2026, making it one of the central stages for the upcoming season.
