anticipation of ipl 2026 fever reaching its peak Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Be prepared to defend your hard-earned crown. After their historic first title win in 2025, the franchise is no longer the underdog but the target. Amidst this high-risk environment, the heartbeat of the team, Virat KohliHas created a stir on social media by naming his all-time RCB XI.
In a newly surfaced video shared by the official handle of RCB, the 36-year-old maestro, who played a key role in the 2025 triumph, looked back at the legends who laid the foundation of the franchise. While the lineup is a ‘who’s who’ of T20 royalty, the most important inclusion was not a power-hitter, but a great leg spinner: Anil Kumble. by slotting’Anil Bhai‘In the bowling attack, Kohli has bridged a decade-long gap, which shows deep respect for the man who once led him in his formative years.
Virat Kohli chose his all time RCB XI
Kohli’s selection is a tactical masterpiece, balancing the explosive ‘Big Three’ era with the composure of the 2025 champions. He chose himself and chris gayle To open the innings, a pair that formed some of the greatest partnerships in T20 history. The judge sits at number 3 AB de VilliersKohli often calls the man the most talented player he has played with.
The middle order reflects Kohli’s deep appreciation for technical skills and local talent. KL Rahuldespite his move Delhi Capitals For the 2026 season, he earned the No. 4 spot for his stellar performances in 2016. Interestingly, Kohli agreed to this Rajat Patidar at number 5, citing him “Incredible ability to play spin“Chased by the evergreen finisher Dinesh Karthik.
However, the bowling department is where the real “heavy metal” resides. With fast attack feature Mitchell Starc And dale steynKohli opted for pure intimidation. but select Yuzvendra Chahal And Anil Kumble This ensures that the small boundaries of the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium are protected by the highest level of craftsmanship.
Kohli chose all time RCB XI
Chris Gayle, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, KL Rahul, Rajat Patidar, Dinesh Karthik, Harshal Patel, Anil Kumble, Mitchell Starc, Dale Steyn, Yuzvendra Chahal.
Also read: Former RCB coach took blind rank challenge, placed Virat Kohli at number 5 among 6 IPL captains
Importance of Anil Kumble-Kohli connection
The highlight of this reveal was undoubtedly Kumble’s inclusion at No. 8. For seasoned cricket fans, this is not just a tactical choice; This is an emotional thing. The relationship between Kohli and Kumble has been the subject of intense scrutiny since 2017, following Kumble’s high-profile resignation as head coach of the Indian national team. At the time, Kumble described the partnership as follows:Unstable,Rumors have been swirling for years about the rift between the two icons.
By naming Kumble in his best XI, Kohli has effectively silenced the ghosts of the past. This serves as public acknowledgment of Kumble’s massive influence on RCB during the 2009 and 2010 seasons, where ‘Jumbo’ led the team with a fiery, competitive spirit, which Kohli eventually adopted as well.
This feeling comes at just the right time. As RCB is getting ready for the match Sunrisers Hyderabad Kohli’s focus in the IPL 2026 opener is clearly on legacy and unity. He’s not just looking to defend a trophy; He is respecting the lineage of a club that took 18 years to reach the top. With Anil Bhai leading the imaginary spin attack, Kohli’s all-time XI is not just a team, it is a tribute to the resilience of the bold brigade.