As Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) gear up to defend their IPL title, former captain Virat Kohli cautions the team about the challenges awaiting them in the 19th edition of the tournament starting on March 28. RCB, the reigning champions who clinched their first IPL title in 2025, will kick off their title defense against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on March 28. Following this, they will face Chennai Super Kings on April 5 in another home match.
The team has commenced their preparatory camp in Bengaluru with the initial training session at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Kohli, a prominent figure in Indian cricket, emphasized to his RCB colleagues the increased difficulty they will face in the upcoming IPL season as defending champions, with other teams intensifying their efforts to defeat them.
During the team’s first practice session, Kohli motivated the players, stressing the need for maximum effort in the upcoming weeks. He highlighted the hard work put in over the past seasons and the impending challenges. Kohli urged the squad to maintain focus and give their best throughout the tournament.
RCB has bolstered their squad through the auction, securing players like Venkatesh Iyer, Mangesh Yadav, Jordan Cox, Vicky Ostwal, and Satvik Deswal. Head coach Andy Flower expressed contentment with the team’s composition post-auction, noting improvements in crucial areas. Flower emphasized the team’s readiness to face the new season’s challenges and their determination to secure victory in this year’s IPL.
