Virat Kohli is set to make his return to competitive cricket after a two-month hiatus, having last played during the ODI series against New Zealand in January. As the IPL 2026 season approaches, former India batter Mohammed Kaif has expressed confidence that Kohli will hit the ground running.
Kaif, speaking on his YouTube channel, dismissed concerns that the break might cause rustiness for the RCB superstar. Instead, he believes the hiatus could actually benefit Kohli, providing him with a fresh mindset.
Kaif’s Perspective
“It won’t make a difference. In fact, it might help him come back with a clear head,” Kaif said. “He’s used to switching between formats, and this break is not new to him. He’s someone who has managed transitions well for India. It would be different for others, but not for Kohli. He’s performed in IPL before his T20I retirement, even winning Man of the Match in the final. Very few players can adapt that quickly.”
Kaif also emphasized Kohli’s recent form and mental resilience. “The break, especially after retiring from Test cricket, hasn’t been easy for him. But he’s now playing aggressively in limited-overs cricket, with a high strike rate. He’s improved his game and is determined to prove his critics wrong. He’s mentally focused and ready,” he added.
High Expectations for Kohli
Kaif, who shared the dressing room with Kohli at RCB for two seasons, believes the 37-year-old will be more motivated than ever. With RCB entering the tournament as defending champions, Kohli’s commitment is expected to be unwavering.
“Virat Kohli won’t accept complacency. As a leader, he’ll demand effort and energy from everyone. If he senses anyone slacking, he’ll call them out. He’s a player who always starts from zero, and he’s hungry for another trophy. His determination will keep everyone on their toes,” Kaif said.
Last Season’s Impact
Kohli played a crucial role in RCB’s title victory last season, scoring 657 runs in 15 matches at an impressive average of 54.75 and a strike rate of 144.71. His performances included 66 fours and multiple fifty-plus scores, underscoring his importance to the team’s success.
As the IPL 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Kohli to see if he can continue his stellar form and lead RCB to further glory.