What is Royal Challengers Bengaluru's new challenge for IPL 2026?

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's new challenge for IPL 2026 is to defend their first-ever IPL title.

What did Virat Kohli tell the RCB squad?

Virat Kohli told the RCB squad that winning the title once has changed nothing unless they match their previous hunger, as other teams will come at them harder.

How does RCB's position differ from last season?

Last season, RCB chased a breakthrough; this year, they are champions with a target on their back and heavier expectations.

Home / Sports / Virat Kohli's Warning: Defending Champions Face New Hunger

Virat Kohli's Warning: Defending Champions Face New Hunger

21 Mar

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Summary

RCB recently won their first IPL title after 17 years.
Virat Kohli urged the team to match their hunger for the new season.
The team faces increased pressure as defending champions with a target.

Virat Kohli's Warning: Defending Champions Face New Hunger

Royal Challengers Bengaluru begins the IPL 2026 season from a novel position, aiming to defend their maiden title. The franchise, long known for falling short, finally broke through in 2025. This historic win frames the start of their new campaign.

At the initial training session, Virat Kohli addressed the squad, delivering a crucial message about maintaining their competitive drive. He highlighted that winning the championship required immense effort and that sustaining this success would demand an equal or greater level of hunger, as rival teams would now target them more intensely.

Last season, RCB pursued a long-awaited breakthrough. This year, they are the champions, facing a heavier burden of expectation from the outset. Kohli's words aimed to instill this understanding of their changed status immediately within the team.

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