Summary
Virat Kohli and Phil Salt are getting ready for the start of the IPL 2026 season. A new video from the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) training camp shows Kohli bowling to his opening partner in the nets. This moment has caught the attention of fans who are excited to see the defending champions back in action. The team is preparing for their first game of the season this Saturday at their home ground.
Main Impact
The main impact of this viral video is the positive energy it brings to the RCB camp. After winning their first-ever title last year, the team is under pressure to perform well again. Seeing the team's biggest star, Virat Kohli, helping his teammate Phil Salt shows a strong bond within the squad. This kind of teamwork is vital for a team trying to win two trophies in a row. It also shows that Kohli is taking a lead role in making sure the players are ready for any challenge, including fast and short bowling.
Key Details
What Happened
During a practice session at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Virat Kohli took the ball and bowled several deliveries to Phil Salt. Kohli did not just bowl slow balls; he tried different styles, including full-length balls and short-pitched deliveries. This was likely done to help Salt practice his hitting against different types of bowling. The franchise shared this footage on social media, and it quickly became a hot topic among cricket fans. The two players seemed to be enjoying the session, showing that the mood in the camp is relaxed but focused.
Important Numbers and Facts
The partnership between Kohli and Salt was the best in the league last year. In the 2025 season, they scored a total of 565 runs together in just 13 innings. They had several big moments, including a 95-run opening stand that came in only 8.3 overs during a difficult chase. Another highlight was an unbeaten 92-run partnership in Jaipur that helped RCB win a game by nine wickets. These numbers show why the team relies so much on these two players to start the innings well. The first match of the 2026 season is scheduled for March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Background and Context
For a long time, RCB was known as the team that could never win the trophy. That changed in 2025 when they finally ended an 18-year wait to become champions. A big part of that success was the new opening pair of Virat Kohli and Phil Salt. Before Salt joined, the team struggled to find a steady partner for Kohli. Once they started playing together, the team's batting became much stronger. Now, as the 2026 season begins, the goal is to show that last year was not a fluke. The team wants to prove they are the best in the league by defending their title.
Public or Industry Reaction
Fans on social media are calling Kohli the "Wrong-footed Inswinging Menace" because of his unique bowling style. While most people know he is a world-class batter, they love seeing him bowl. On the professional side, RCB Director of Cricket Mo Bobat spoke to the media to support Phil Salt. Some critics were worried about Salt because he did not score many runs in the recent T20 World Cup. However, Bobat pointed out that Salt is still the number four ranked T20 batter in the world. He called Kohli and Salt "gladiators" and said he is excited to see them walk out to bat together again.
What This Means Going Forward
Looking ahead, it is unlikely that Virat Kohli will become a regular bowler for the team. However, having him bowl in the nets helps the other batters prepare. It also gives the captain another option if they ever need a surprise over during a match. The biggest focus for RCB will be the form of Phil Salt. If he can find his rhythm early in the season, RCB will be very hard to beat. The team will face Sunrisers Hyderabad in their first game, which will be a big test for their bowling and batting units. The next few weeks will show if RCB has what it takes to stay at the top of the table.
Final Take
RCB is entering the new season with a lot of confidence and a clear plan. The video of Kohli and Salt is more than just a fun moment; it is a sign of a united team. By working together and supporting each other in practice, they are building the foundation for another successful year. Fans are ready, the players are ready, and the hunt for a second trophy is about to begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Virat Kohli bowl in the actual IPL 2026 matches?
While Kohli was seen bowling in the nets, he usually only bowls in matches if the team is in a very specific situation. He is primarily a batter, but he can bowl medium pace if needed.
When is the first match for RCB in IPL 2026?
RCB will play their first match of the season on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
How did Phil Salt perform in the last IPL season?
Phil Salt had a great 2025 season. He and Virat Kohli were the most successful opening pair, scoring 565 runs together across 13 matches.