Virat Kohli has been one of cricket’s most recognisable figures for well over a decade, and even after stepping away from both T20 Internationals and Test matches, he still dominates the conversation around the sport through sheer impact. While many assumed his schedule would ease following retirement from those formats, Kohli has shown no signs of losing the edge—particularly in ODI cricket, where his rhythm and intent remain remarkably steady. In his recent run of form, he has been piling on runs with impressive consistency, and that has translated directly into big scores. Over his most recent seven ODI innings, Kohli has reached three centuries and three additional half-centuries, a record that highlights his ability to deliver when the pressure is highest. Fitness, hunger and intensity—qualities that have defined his career for years—are still very much present. With the ODI World Cup set to arrive next year, his current trajectory has only strengthened the sense that he is sharpening his game for another major chapter in India colours.
Alongside his ODI momentum, Kohli has also enjoyed a productive IPL campaign with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2026. The former captain has amassed 379 runs across 11 matches, posting an average of 42.11 and striking at 163.36. He is yet to register a century this season, but he has already compiled three fifties, with his best score reading 81. His ability to balance attacking shots with calm decision-making has continued to underline why he remains central to the way RCB approach their innings.
That relentless mindset has not gone unnoticed in the dressing room. RCB all-rounder Krunal Pandya offered high praise for Kohli, crediting his unwavering drive and work ethic. Pandya—who has shared the Indian team environment with Kohli in the past and now works alongside him again at Bengaluru—said the veteran batter’s intensity has not dulled despite reaching almost every milestone the game offers. He pointed to Kohli’s passion during training as a key differentiator, describing how the focus carries through even the smallest details of practice.
“I have learned a lot just by watching Virat Kohli, the way he prepares for a tournament and the intensity he brings to every practice session. I have played with him for India when he was captain, and I have also played against him. Now, I am lucky to share the same dressing room with him again. What I have realised is that his hunger is still unbelievable. Those eyes don’t lie. The same intensity in every net session, the same hunger to improve. That is what makes him Virat. I believe if he had played in any era, he would still be one of the greatest. And I feel there is still a lot left in Virat to give to the game,” Krunal said on JioStar’s ‘Superstars’.
In IPL 2026, Kohli’s batting has also looked notably more fearless and attacking compared to earlier phases of the season. He has struck 42 fours and 15 sixes so far, while maintaining a strike rate of 163.36. Just as importantly, he continues to provide stability at the top of the order, giving RCB a solid platform from which they can accelerate. With these numbers driving his impact, Kohli has played a major role in RCB’s strong run in the tournament. The season has also brought another landmark moment: he has crossed 9000 IPL runs this year, adding a further milestone to an already exceptional league career.
