Bengaluru: Virat Kohli has issued a strong message to his Royal Challengers Bengaluru teammates ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season, warning that defending their title will be an even bigger challenge.

The defending champions will begin their campaign on March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Kohli calls for higher intensity

Speaking during a training session, Kohli emphasised the need for sustained effort and focus, especially after the team’s historic title win last year.

“We worked really hard over the last two to three seasons to achieve what we did, and it’s only going to get tougher because other teams will come hard at us,” Kohli said.

Urging teammates to maximise every training opportunity, he added:
“Let’s not waste even a minute. We must give our 120% for these two and a half months.”

RCB eye strong title defence

RCB clinched their maiden IPL title in 2025, defeating Punjab Kings in a thrilling final in Ahmedabad.

With expectations soaring, the team will now look to defend the trophy in what promises to be a highly competitive season.

Head coach Andy Flower expressed confidence in the squad, highlighting improvements made during the auction.

“We’ve improved our squad. Integrating new players with established names led by Virat and Rajat Patidar is an exciting process,” Flower said.

Kohli’s form remains key

Kohli continues to be the backbone of RCB’s batting line-up, having scored 600-plus runs in each of the last three seasons.

With 8,661 runs in 267 IPL matches — including eight centuries and 63 fifties — he is now on the brink of another historic milestone.

The star batter is set to become the first player in IPL history to cross the 9,000-run mark, adding another layer of anticipation to his campaign.

Conclusion: High expectations, bigger challenge

As IPL 2026 approaches, RCB face the dual challenge of maintaining their dominance while fending off stronger, more determined opponents.

Kohli’s message reflects the team’s mindset — success last season is only the beginning, and sustaining it will require even greater intensity, discipline, and hunger.