Irfan Pathan Raises a Question Nobody Expected About Virat Kohli Ahead of IPL 2026

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has said that the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 could present a fresh challenge for Virat Kohli, as the veteran batter prepares for the season after stepping away from two international formats. The tournament is set to begin on March 28, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru facing SunRisers Hyderabad in the opening match, placing immediate focus on Kohli’s form and role.

Pathan noted that Kohli’s transition to playing only One Day Internationals at the international level could impact his rhythm in the T20 format. Kohli had retired from T20 Internationals in 2024 and stepped away from Test cricket the following year, leaving him active in just one format for India. According to Pathan, adapting quickly to the demands of high-intensity T20 cricket without regular exposure could test even a player of Kohli’s experience and consistency.

Elaborating on his point, Pathan said that returning to T20 cricket after limited match practice requires a shift in approach, especially for a player expected to take on an aggressive role. He emphasized that while Kohli has historically handled breaks well in ODI cricket, the fast-paced and attacking nature of T20s presents a different challenge. Pathan, however, expressed confidence in Kohli’s ability to adapt, citing his track record of overcoming difficult phases throughout his career.

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Kohli remains one of the most iconic figures associated with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, having been part of the franchise since the inaugural IPL season. He also captained the side between 2013 and 2021, a period marked by several standout individual performances. Pathan described the association between Kohli and the franchise as deeply connected, highlighting the batter’s long-standing contribution to the team’s identity and success.

The expectations surrounding Kohli remain high, particularly after his impressive performance in the previous season when RCB clinched the title. He scored 657 runs at an average of 54.75 and a strike rate of 144.71, registering eight half-centuries during the campaign. His shift toward a more aggressive batting style was seen as a key factor in the team’s success, moving away from a traditional anchor role.

As IPL 2026 approaches, much attention will be on whether Kohli can replicate that form under altered circumstances. With increased responsibility and evolving match dynamics, his performance could play a crucial role in RCB’s title defense. Pathan concluded that while challenges are inevitable, Kohli’s experience and adaptability make him one of the most exciting players to watch in the upcoming season.

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