WATCH: Virat Kohli starts sweating out in nets ahead of IPL 2026

Virat Kohli has started his preparations for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, getting back into the nets ahead of the upcoming season of the cash-rich league. Notably, Virat Kohli's franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will look to defend its title.

In a video shared on his Instagram account, Kohli can be seen practising a variety of shots during a net session. From powerful lofted strokes to his trademark classical drives, the former India captain looked focused while training with the help of a throwdown specialist. The clip has quickly caught the attention of cricket fans, adding to the growing excitement ahead of the season.

Although there has been no official confirmation yet, Kohli is expected to join the squad when the Royal Challengers Bengaluru assemble in Bengaluru on March 15. As the defending IPL champions, RCB would certainly want their biggest star with the team from the start as they prepare to defend the title.

RCB will play five matches in Bengaluru

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RCB will play five of their league matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium this season, including the opening game of the tournament. The confirmation of matches at the iconic venue ended months of uncertainty about whether the stadium would be ready in time for the IPL. It also came as a huge relief for the franchise’s loyal fans in Bengaluru.

RCB's second home venue

Apart from Bengaluru, RCB will also play two league matches at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur, which will serve as their second home venue.

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Why IPL schedule announcement in delayed?

Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to release the full IPL 2026 schedule. Board secretary Devajit Saikia has said that the announcement will be made in the coming days.

The delay is mainly due to upcoming state elections in Assam, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The BCCI is waiting for the election dates to be finalised before confirming the IPL fixtures.

As defending champions, RCB will enter the 2026 season with high expectations. Kohli’s early return to training suggests he is already focused on the challenge ahead and eager to make an impact when the tournament begins.