Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli has revealed his all-time playing XI for Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season.
RCB are entering the new IPL season as the defending champions. The Bengaluru-based franchise finally won their first IPL title in 2025. It ended their long wait of 17 years for the trophy.
Kohli picked a powerful lineup filled with some of the biggest names who played for the franchise over the years.
Virat Kohli Chooses Chris Gayle and Himself as Openers
Virat Kohli selected explosive West Indies legend Chris Gayle as his opening partner. The duo formed one of the most dangerous batting pairs in IPL history during their time with RCB.
At No. 3, Kohli picked former RCB superstar AB de Villiers. The South African great played many match-winning innings for the team.
For the middle order, Kohli included Indian batter KL Rahul at No. 4. Current RCB captain Rajat Patidar was placed at No. 5.
Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik was selected at No. 6. All-rounder Harshal Patel was included at No. 7.
For the spin department, Kohli picked Indian legend Anil Kumble and former RCB star Yuzvendra Chahal.
The pace attack featured two overseas greats. Kohli named South African fast bowling legend Dale Steyn and Australian left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc.
Virat Kohli’s all-time RCB playing XI:
Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, KL Rahul, Rajat Patidar, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Anil Kumble, Mitchell Starc, Dale Steyn, Yuzvendra Chahal.
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RCB will once again be led by Patidar in IPL 2026. The defending champions are hoping to retain their title after their historic win last season.
The team also strengthened their squad during the mini-auction. RCB added players like Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Duffy, Jordan Cox and Vicky Ostwal.
RCB will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
They will also face Chennai Super Kings on April 5 in Bengaluru. Another big clash will come against Mumbai Indians on April 12 at the Wankhede Stadium.
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