Virat Kohli takes the competitive centre stage yet again as Royal Challengers Bengaluru begin their IPL title defense against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2026 on Saturday (March 28).
The India stalwart has a huge responsibility yet again as they march on to the field as the reigning champions. Kohli, who has been in superb nick in recent times, will have to drive the batting unit.

Virat Kohli is indisputably the top batter in IPL history, both in terms of impact and numbers. With more than 8000 runs, Kohli has revolutionised batting in the IPL with consistency, class and poise. And as he takes guard in the middle, Kohli will be hoping to emulate the same.
Virat Kohli had a strong IPL 2025 season for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He scored 657 runs in 15 matches at an impressive average of 54.75 and a strike rate of 144.71. His highest score was 73 not out, and he smashed 8 half-centuries along with 66 fours and 19 sixes. Kohli played a key role in RCB's title-winning campaign, including scoring 43 runs in the final.

Over the years, Virat Kohli has played 24 matches against Sunrisers Hyderabad and has amassed 805 runs against them. The RCB star has batted at an average of 36.59 with a strike rate of almost 142. Kohli has hit 83 fours and 29 sixes in the RCB colours against Hyderabad, with his highest score being a 100 in the IPL 2023 season.

Matches: 24
Innings: 24
Runs: 805
Average: 36.59
Strike Rate: 141.97
Highest Score: 100
Fifties: 5
Centuries: 1
Ducks: 3
Fours: 83
Sixes: 29