Royal Challengers Bengaluru could face a major setback ahead of their upcoming IPL 2026 match against Lucknow Super Giants, with Virat Kohli’s availability now under serious doubt. The star batter picked up a knee concern during RCB’s previous game and his participation remains uncertain heading into this crucial fixture.
Kohli Trains but Injury Concern Remains
Virat Kohli was seen attending training sessions ahead of the match, which initially eased concerns among fans and the RCB camp. He spent time in the nets and appeared comfortable while batting. However, a noticeable detail was the heavy strapping on his left knee, which has raised fresh doubts about his match fitness.
During a recent interaction with players and support staff, Kohli was spotted walking carefully, indicating that the issue may still be bothering him. Despite pushing through training, the team management is likely to take a cautious approach given the long tournament ahead.
Kohli has been in strong form this season, scoring 179 runs in four matches at an impressive average close to 60 and a strike rate above 160. His absence, if confirmed, would be a significant blow to RCB’s top order.
RCB Face Selection Challenge Ahead of Key Match
With the match against Lucknow Super Giants approaching, RCB may need to prepare a backup plan. The team currently sits among the top contenders on the points table, and losing a player of Kohli’s experience could impact their balance.
Reports and social media buzz have also suggested that other players, including Josh Hazlewood, might miss the game due to fitness concerns. While there is no official confirmation yet, the situation has added to the uncertainty around RCB’s playing XI.
The final call on Kohli’s availability is expected closer to match time, depending on how his knee responds. Until then, RCB fans will be hoping for a positive update as the team looks to maintain its strong start in IPL 2026.
Squads For RCB vs LSG Match 23
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Squad
Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (w), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jacob Duffy, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam Dar, Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Bethell, Swapnil Singh, Mangesh Yadav, Josh Hazlewood, Jordan Cox, Nuwan Thushara, Vicky Ostwal, Vihaan Malhotra, Abhinandan Singh, Kanishk Chouhan, Satvik Deswal
Lucknow Super Giants Squad
Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant (w/c), Ayush Badoni, Nicholas Pooran, Abdul Samad, Mukul Choudhary, George Linde, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Digvesh Singh Rath, Prince Yadav, Manimaran Siddharth, Shahbaz Ahmed, Mayank Yadav, Matthew Breetzke, Anrich Nortje, Josh Inglis, Himmat Singh, Mohsin Khan, Arjun Tendulkar, Akash Maharaj Singh, Akshat Raghuvanshi, Arshin Kulkarni, Naman Tiwari
