Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have sent a strong message to their rivals ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Embarking on their first-ever title defense, RCB organized an intense intra-squad warm-up match in Bengaluru to fine-tune their strategies. The match, led by captains Krunal Pandya and Venkatesh Iyer, saw the batters displaying extraordinary power-hitting skills.

The legendary Virat Kohli set the tone by smashing 29 runs off just 12 deliveries, looking in supreme touch from the very first ball. However, it was Jitesh Sharma who stole the show with a sensational 81 off just 37 balls, boasting a strike rate of nearly 219. Tim David’s cameo of 36 from 14 balls and Venkatesh Iyer’s steady 30 from 16 balls further bolstered the team’s batting confidence.

On the bowling front, veteran Bhuvneshwar Kumar and youngster Mangesh Yadav impressed with their discipline. Krunal Pandya lauded the team’s effort, stating that Kohli’s form is a massive inspiration for the younger players. With the core squad looking in peak physical condition, RCB is leaving no stone unturned to ensure they start IPL 2026 on a high note and keep the silverware in Bengaluru.