Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have kicked off their IPL 2026 campaign with their first training session at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, setting the tone early for their title defence.
The defending champions will begin their season against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28, and the focus in camp is already sharp and clear.
Virat Kohli, along with head coach Andy Flower, led the opening session as players got back into rhythm after the off-season. The atmosphere was energetic, with both senior players and new faces fully involved.
Kohli did not hold back while addressing the squad. He made it clear that every moment in training matters and that the team must stay switched on throughout the season.
“We stay ahead. So switch on now. Let’s not waste even a minute of any session that we are a part of. We must give our 120% for these two and a half months,” Kohli told the players.
Several new signings joined the camp, including Venkatesh Iyer, Jordan Cox and Vicky Ostwal, along with young talents like Mangesh Yadav, Satvik Deswal, Kanishk Chouhan and Vihaan Malhotra.
Andy Flower said the auction has helped strengthen the squad and believes the key now is to bring everyone together quickly. He stressed the importance of helping new players understand and adapt to the “RCB way.”
The coach also pointed to the added pressure this season. RCB will wear a star on their jersey after winning their first IPL title last year, but Flower made it clear that the focus remains firmly on winning again.
Wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma shared his excitement about the camp. He said the energy among players is high and added that he is happy with the preparation time and the new setup.
Flower also highlighted the importance of starting the season at home. He praised the Chinnaswamy outfield and said familiar conditions could give RCB a strong start.
With a balanced squad and clear intent, RCB appear ready to embrace the challenge of defending their crown as the new season approaches.