IPL 2026: Virat Kohli shines with fine form, Tim David, Venkatesh Iyer power RCB practice session

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s practice match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium saw Virat Kohli, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, and Venkatesh Iyer deliver standout performances ahead of the IPL 2026 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad. RCB’s training session in Bengaluru highlighted strong batting form, with Virat Kohli and key players shining as the defending champions intensified preparations for IPL 2026.

Virat Kohli led from the front in RCB’s practice clash, while Tim David and Jitesh Sharma impressed as the team geared up for their opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Royal Challengers Bengaluru began their title defence preparations on a strong note, with multiple batters in top form during an intense practice game at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

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RCB shared a training video showcasing dominant performances from Kohli and the batting unit, as Krunal Pandya praised the team’s form ahead of IPL 2026. “It was a good practice game. Everyone bowled well — Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abhinandan Singh, and Mangesh Yadav all performed impressively. Among the batters, Jitesh played exceptionally, with some remarkable shots. Tim David also batted very well, while Venkatesh and Virat showed solid performances. Virat, in particular, displayed great intent and played some outstanding shots today. He’s looking in good form, which is very encouraging for us,” Krunal Pandya said, reflecting on Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s strong practice outing ahead of IPL 2026.

Jitesh Sharma emerged as the standout performer with a blistering 81 off 37 balls, reinforcing his role as RCB’s finisher as he eyes a strong campaign this season.

Tim David smashed a quickfire 36 off 14 deliveries, while Venkatesh Iyer added 30 from 16 balls, both impressing with their aggressive stroke play during the practice clash.

Krunal Pandya also highlighted Virat Kohli’s explosive 29 off just 12 balls as a key takeaway, with the opener looking in excellent rhythm ahead of the new season. RCB, the defending champions after their dominant IPL 2025 final win over Punjab Kings, will begin their 2026 campaign with two home games at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium before travelling to face Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati and Mumbai Indians in Mumbai.