Virat Kohli was back doing what he does best—dominating bowlers in the nets—as he returned to training with Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of their crucial matches in the ongoing Indian Premier League season. After taking time away from competitive cricket, Kohli’s presence at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru reignited the energy within the RCB camp and the fanbase, both eager to see the former India and RCB captain back in full flow.
Wearing his signature intensity, Kohli was seen putting in long hours at the nets. He began with shadow practice, focusing on his trigger movements and balance, before facing throwdowns and live bowlers. True to his reputation, Kohli looked sharp, middling the ball cleanly and driving with elegance. His footwork against spin was precise, while his timing against the pacers suggested that he hasn’t lost his touch despite the time away from the game.
Even during training, there was no shortage of drama. Every shot he played was met with cheers from the RCB support staff and those few lucky fans allowed into the practice session. Some even camped outside the stadium hours before the session started, hoping to catch a glimpse of Kohli in action. His arrival was met with chants of “King Kohli,” and once he took strike in the nets, the cameras didn’t stop clicking.
Kohli’s return is not only timely for RCB but vital. The team is in a strong position in the points table, aiming to cement their playoff berth. With 16 points in hand and three games left in the league stage, RCB will look to finish among the top two to gain the advantage of a direct route to the final. Kohli’s experience and hunger for runs could be the difference as the tournament heads into its business end.
The net session also gave glimpses of Kohli mentoring younger players in the squad. He was seen having an extended chat with Rajat Patidar and Suyash Prabhudessai, discussing technique and approach. It was a reminder of the leadership role he continues to play within the side, even if he is not the official captain anymore.
The mood in the RCB camp was noticeably upbeat. With Kohli back in the mix, the team looked sharper and more focused. Head coach Andy Flower and other members of the support staff were visibly pleased with the session, watching Kohli’s fluency with satisfaction.
Looking ahead, Kohli is expected to feature in RCB’s next game, a much-anticipated clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders. With the match being held at Chinnaswamy, the fans will be out in full voice, hoping to see their hero deliver a classic knock under the lights. Weather forecasts suggest a possibility of rain, but that hasn’t dampened the spirits of the fans or the players.
For Virat Kohli, this IPL chapter may not just be about helping RCB chase glory, but also about reaffirming his relevance as one of the modern greats. Judging by his form in the nets, it’s safe to say that the fire still burns bright.