Concerns have emerged over the fitness of former captain Virat Kohli ahead of the high-profile IPL 2026 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), scheduled to be played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Wednesday.
Kohli, who has been in fine form this season, has scored 179 runs in four matches so far in IPL 2026 at an impressive average of 59.66 and a strike rate of 162.72. His tally includes two half-centuries, with a highest score of 69 not out, underlining his importance at the top of the order for RCB.
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However, concerns about his availability began after he missed fielding duties in the previous match against Mumbai Indians due to an ankle strain. While RCB managed to secure an 18-run victory in that encounter, Kohli was seen sitting out in a jacket and did not take the field, raising early questions about his fitness.
In a video shared by the franchise ahead of the LSG clash, Kohli was seen arriving at the training session and greeting LSG captain Rishabh Pant and Kane Williamson. However, what caught attention was the visible strapping on his left ankle.
During the training session, Kohli reportedly did not participate in full-intensity drills. Instead, he was seen undergoing light running tests, which has further fuelled speculation over whether he will be fully fit for the crucial fixture.
Despite the fitness concerns, Kohli’s presence remains vital for RCB, especially after his match-winning contributions earlier in the season. In the previous game against Mumbai Indians, he scored a composed 50 off 38 balls, helping RCB post a massive total of 240/4 alongside explosive innings from Phil Salt and Rajat Patidar.
As the defending champions prepare for a crucial encounter, all eyes will now be on Kohli’s final fitness assessment, with fans eagerly waiting for clarity on whether he will take the field against LSG or be rested as a precaution.
