Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, Virat Kohli has revealed his all-time playing XI for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, bringing together some of the biggest names who have represented the franchise over the years.
The former RCB captain shared his dream lineup in a video posted on the RCB’s official social media channels.
Virat Kohli tried to keep a balance between explosive batting, reliable all-rounders, and a strong bowling attack, selecting players who played a key role in shaping RCB’s identity across different seasons.
Legendary RCB stars dominate the batting lineup
Virat Kohli has picked both Chris Gayle and himself to make the opening partnership in IPL history, with the ability to completely dominate a game in very few overs.
At number 3, he has selected AB de Villiers as he has consistently been one of the finest players in the world and has played a very important role within RCB’s batting line-up for many years.
Read More
KL Rahul comes into the middle order, having had an amazing season in 2016 for RCB at the number 4 position, followed by Rajat Patidar, who has played many key innings over the last few years.
Dinesh Karthik has been Kohli’s choice for wicketkeeper, as his finishing abilities and experience provided value during his period with RCB.
A powerful bowling Line-Up
The bowling combination for RCB has been one of the best hybrids of fast and spin bowling over the course of its history, represented by Virat Kohli’s selection of both types for his bowling line-up.
Dale Steyn and Mitchell Starc were two fast bowlers selected by Virat Kohli to represent the RCB fast bowling contingent, having both had many great spells while playing for RCB.
In addition, he took Yuzvendra Chahal as the leading wicket-taker for RCB and Anil Kumble as one of the greatest bowlers of all time. Virat Kohli also picked Harshal Patel as his all-rounder, as he had a fantastic year during his time at RCB and was a key contributing member of the bowling staff.
Virat Kohli’s All-Time RCB XI
Here is the full list of RCB’s All-time playing XI, picked by Virat Kohli-
- Chris Gayle
- Virat Kohli
- AB de Villiers
- KL Rahul
- Rajat Patidar
- Dinesh Karthik (WK)
- Harshal Patel
- Anil Kumble
- Mitchell Starc
- Dale Steyn
- Yuzvendra Chahal
Anil Kumble’s selection sparks nostalgia
One of the most discussed selections in Virat Kohli’s team is Anil Kumble. As a legendary leg spinner and now also a highly regarded coach, Anil was picked at position 8, which instantly reminded fans of his tenure as head coach of RCB.
Anil captained RCB for the 2009 and 2010 seasons and led the team to the IPL finals in 2009.
When Anil was captain, and a young Virat was just beginning to carve his niche in RCB as a player, he has learnt many things under Anil’s leadership.
Read More
Wrapping it up, RCB has created history in IPL 2025 by winning their first-ever championship title. With the trophy finally in their cabinet, the team is now heading into the 2026 season with the challenge of defending it.
Also Read: Ekana Cricket Stadium IPL 2026 Matches: Complete Schedule And Venue Guide
