Virat Kohli, one of the biggest stars of Indian cricket, is once again at the center of attention. When Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally ended their long wait in 2025 by winning the IPL trophy for the very first time, Kohli was one of the key architects of that success. Following that historic victory, former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes that Kohli will take the field in IPL 2026 with an even greater hunger than before.
According to Pathan, winning a trophy for the first time after years of waiting instills a new kind of self-confidence and aggression in a cricketer. The same is set to happen in Kohli's case. He feels that this time, Kohli's objective will be to secure a second consecutive IPL title and usher RCB into a new era.
Kohli's Extraordinary Performance in IPL 2025
The 2025 IPL season was truly extraordinary for Virat Kohli. Throughout the tournament, he scored runs consistently and established himself as the team's most reliable batter.
In that season, Kohli played 15 matches and amassed 657 runs, making him the team's leading run-scorer. Beyond just scoring runs, he also demonstrated the ability to turn the tide of a match during crucial moments.
In the final match against Punjab Kings, Kohli scored a vital 43 runs. While that innings may not have been a massive score in itself, it was immensely valuable given the context of the match. It was on the strength of that innings by Kohli that RCB was able to post a formidable total and, ultimately, secure their historic victory.
This triumph was not merely about winning a trophy; it marked a fresh beginning following years of frustration and setbacks.
"Hungrier Than Ever" — Irfan Pathan
In a recent interview, Irfan Pathan remarked that competitive cricketers like Kohli do not stop once they achieve success; rather, they set their sights on even bigger goals.
In Pathan's words:
"Kohli will now be hungrier than ever before. Now that RCB has finally won the trophy after so many years, he will want to make this success a consistent occurrence."
Pathan further added that Kohli's mindset sets him apart from many other cricketers. He strives to give his absolute best in every match and fights for victory the moment he steps onto the field.
Kohli's Indomitable Winning Mentality
A close look at Virat Kohli's cricket career reveals one thing with absolute clarity—he is never satisfied with mediocrity. In every match, every innings, and every tournament, he endeavors to give nothing less than his absolute maximum.
It is this very attitude that has established him as one of the finest batsmen in modern cricket.
Echoing this sentiment, Irfan Pathan noted that Kohli's aggression and hunger for victory have been clearly evident even in recent international matches. He still feels the urge to prove himself in every single game.
This mindset could well make him an even more formidable batsman in the IPL 2026.
Preparations Underway for IPL 2026
According to sources, Virat Kohli has already commenced his preparations for the IPL 2026. He is regularly honing his batting skills in the nets and working rigorously to maintain his fitness levels.
Kohli has always been extremely meticulous about his fitness. It is his rigorous fitness regimen that has enabled him to compete at the highest level for such an extended period.
Fitness is paramount for delivering consistent performances in a demanding tournament like the IPL. Consequently, Kohli has begun his preparations well in advance to ensure he is in peak condition before the tournament even begins.
A New Era for RCB
Following their trophy triumph in 2025, many cricket experts believe that Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has now ushered in a new era.
For a long time, RCB was labeled the "unlucky team," as they repeatedly reached the finals but failed to clinch the trophy. However, that curse has finally been broken.
The team's confidence is now soaring. Kohli, Faf du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell, and the other star players have collectively forged a formidable squad.
If they can sustain this level of confidence, RCB will enter the 2026 tournament as one of the firm favorites once again.
Is a Second Consecutive Title Possible?
Winning two consecutive IPL titles is no easy feat, as the competition among the teams intensifies to an extreme level in every single season. However, Kohli's leadership and experience could provide a significant advantage to RCB.
According to experts, if Kohli can once again score runs consistently—and if the team's other batters and bowlers perform equally well—winning a second consecutive trophy is not an impossibility.
Fan Expectations
The IPL is one of the most popular T20 leagues in the world, and Virat Kohli is one of its most popular cricketers.
Consequently, fan expectations for IPL 2026 are exceptionally high. They are hopeful that Kohli will once again deliver magnificent batting performances and lead the team on the path to victory.
RCB supporters, too, will be eager to see their team build upon the success of 2025 and lift the trophy once again.
Conclusion
All things considered, excitement for IPL 2026 has already reached a fever pitch even before the tournament has begun. According to former cricketer Irfan Pathan, Virat Kohli will take the field this time around even more motivated and hungry for success than ever before.
Following the historic victory of 2025, Kohli's objective is now even grander: to secure a second consecutive IPL trophy for RCB.
Cricket fans are now waiting eagerly to see how Kohli and RCB prove their mettle in IPL 2026.
FAQ
1.Why did Irfan Pathan say that Kohli is hungrier than before?
According to Irfan Pathan, after RCB won the IPL for the first time in 2025, Virat Kohli's hunger for victory has intensified, and he will be aiming to win a second consecutive title in 2026.
2. How was Virat Kohli's performance in IPL 2025?
Kohli emerged as RCB's highest run-scorer, amassing 657 runs in 15 matches, and played a crucial knock of 43 runs in the final.
3. Has Kohli begun his preparations for IPL 2026?
Yes; according to reports, Virat Kohli has already commenced batting practice in the nets and is undergoing fitness training.
4. Can RCB win a second consecutive IPL trophy?
According to experts, winning a second consecutive trophy is possible if Kohli and the other players in the team can deliver consistent performances.
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