Virat Kohli begins training for RCB's 2025 IPL campaign

Virat Kohli has resumed training in the nets ahead of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 opener against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on Saturday. The star batter, fresh off India’s ICC Champions Trophy triumph, was seen refining his strokes in preparation for the new season.

Ahead of the RCB Unbox event, which includes the franchise’s jersey reveal, music performances, and a full team practice session, the team released a glimpse of Kohli’s intense net session.

The 35-year-old showcased his trademark drives and lofted shots, displaying the energy and precision that have made him one of cricket’s most celebrated figures.

Kohli was instrumental in India's recent Champions Trophy victory, finishing as the team’s second-highest run-scorer and fifth overall in the tournament with 218 runs in five matches at an average of 54.50.

His standout performances included an unbeaten century against Pakistan while chasing 242 and a crucial 84 off 98 balls in the semifinal against Australia.

Entering his 18th IPL season, Kohli remains a central figure for RCB, holding the record as the tournament’s highest run-scorer. He has amassed 8,004 runs in 252 matches at an average of 38.66 and a strike rate of 131.97, with eight centuries and 55 half-centuries.

Last season, he secured the Orange Cap with 741 runs at an average of 61.75 and a strike rate of 154.69. His performances, including a century and five fifties, were crucial in RCB’s turnaround after a poor start, helping the team recover from just one win in their first eight matches to six consecutive victories and a playoff berth.

With a maiden IPL title still elusive, Kohli will look to lead RCB’s charge in the 2025 season, starting with a challenging opener against defending champions KKR on 22 March.