Virat Kohli’s bowling stint to Phil Salt in RCB nets has gone viral ahead of IPL 2026, as the franchise backs their explosive opening duo despite recent concerns over form.
Ahead of the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League, Virat Kohli grabbed attention after a video showed him bowling in the nets to teammate Phil Salt.
The clip quickly gained traction on social media as Royal Challengers Bengaluru prepared for their opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28.
The unusual sight of Kohli rolling his arm over highlighted the team’s intensity in training as they gear up for the new campaign.
Explosive Kohli-Salt Opening Partnership
Kohli and Salt have emerged as one of the most dangerous opening combinations in the league. Their chemistry at the top played a crucial role in RCB finally securing their maiden IPL title last season after an 18-year wait.
In just 13 innings together, the duo amassed 565 runs, consistently providing strong starts. One of their standout performances came against Kolkata Knight Riders, where they added 95 runs in under nine overs during a chase of 175, with Salt scoring 56 and Kohli remaining unbeaten on 59.
They also dominated Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur, stitching together a 92-run opening stand in a comfortable nine-wicket win. Salt smashed 65, while Kohli once again stayed unbeaten with 62.
RCB Management Backs Salt Despite Recent Form
Despite Salt’s underwhelming run leading into the IPL—where he scored 130 runs from eight matches at an average of 16.25—the RCB camp remains confident in his abilities.
Director of Cricket Mo Bobat dismissed concerns around the English batter’s form and highlighted his pedigree in the format.
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“Someone like Phil Salt is still ranked in one of the top. Not recently, but the top two or three T20 batters in the world. So there is enough depth of confidence there. He also really enjoys being with RCB, his partnership with Virat,” Bobat said.
With backing from the management and a strong partnership with Kohli, Salt will look to rediscover his rhythm as RCB begin their IPL 2026 campaign.
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