'There was always a risk of getting...': Virat Kohli goes candid after steering RCB to 6-wicket win over SRH

Virat Kohli once again did what he does best as he displayed his chase-mastery to help defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) begin their title defense in IPL 2026 with six-wicket win over Sunrisers Hyderabad. Kohli has entered a distinct chapter of his career, shifting from over a decade of relentless, all-format cricket to a more focused international schedule.

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His appearances on the global stage are now primarily reserved for ODIs and his perennial commitment to the IPL, representing a significant change in pace for a player who once defined non-stop participation. While some might expect a decline in rhythm due to fewer match days, his performance on the opening night of IPL 2026 suggests otherwise, showing a masterclass that felt as fluid as his peak years.

Virat Kohli powers RCB to handsome win over SRH

The legendary batter credited this lack of rustiness to the very breaks that have limited his visibility. By stepping away from the grind of a three-format calendar, Kohli has found a way to maintain his sharpness through mental and physical rejuvenation. He emphasized that staying mentally fresh is now the most critical factor as he navigates the final phase of his professional journey. For Kohli, these intervals aren't just downtime; they are the strategic foundation allowing him to perform with high intensity whenever he does step back into the spotlight.

“The last game I played was the (IPL) final last year, but I think the way I batted in the one-day series quite recently really helped me to stay in that same kind of momentum. I wasn’t playing shots that I don’t usually play, so I knew as long as I have the rhythm and I’ve put enough work physically behind the scenes with my fitness, things should come together nicely and tonight was another chance to start strong and to build on this,” Kohli said at the post-match presentation.

Kohli’s masterful 69 off just 38 deliveries served as the centerpiece of a dominant opening performance for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Supported by explosive contributions from Devdutt Padikkal and Rajat Patidar, the veteran's clinical approach ensured the daunting target of 202 was overhauled with remarkable ease. The chase was so efficient that Bengaluru crossed the finish line with 26 balls to spare.

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Extra rest helps me to mentally freshen up: Kohli on playing just one format

This comprehensive victory sends a clear message to the rest of the league as RCB begins its title defense. By dismantling a high total with such significant time remaining, the team demonstrated a perfect blend of experienced leadership and youthful aggression. The result not only secures their first points of the 2026 season but also cements their status as the team to beat in the weeks ahead.

“Well, you know, the kind of scheduling that we’ve had over the last 15 years and the amount of cricket I’ve played, for me, there was always a risk of getting burnt out rather than being undercooked. So these breaks help me immensely. I stay fresh, I stay excited. Whenever I come back to play, it’s 120%. I’m not coming back, you know, underprepared. In fact, the extra rest helps me to mentally freshen up. And as long as you’re physically fit and you’re excited mentally, both those things come together nicely and then you’re able to contribute for the team’s cause, and that’s what you want to do as a player. You don’t want to hold on to a spot you want to keep performing, and you know, keep putting in the work for the team,” Kohli added.

RCB will next face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the same venue on April 5. Meanwhile, SRH will next lock horns with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 2.