New Delhi, March 12: The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are set to defend their title in the upcoming IPL 2026 season, with aspirations of clinching consecutive championships. Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has expressed confidence in Virat Kohli's pivotal role in this endeavor.

During a discussion on JioHotstar, Pathan highlighted Kohli's relentless drive to succeed.

Last season, the 37-year-old Kohli was instrumental in RCB's triumph, amassing 657 runs over 15 matches, boasting an impressive average of 54.75 and a strike rate of 144.71. His performance included 66 boundaries and several innings exceeding fifty runs, placing him among the tournament's top scorers.

Pathan remarked on Kohli's competitive spirit, stating, “Virat's hunger for victory will be more intense than ever, especially after winning the IPL trophy last season. He is determined to secure back-to-back titles, and that desire to make a significant impact will always be present.”

He further noted Kohli's recent performances for India, particularly in the one-day series against South Africa and New Zealand, where Kohli demonstrated his eagerness to influence every match. Pathan believes this passion will carry into the new IPL season, as Kohli aims to lift the trophy once more.

In the previous IPL season, Devdutt Padikkal contributed 247 runs in 10 matches for RCB before a hamstring injury sidelined him. He achieved a strike rate of 150.61, including two half-centuries, with a top score of 61.

Pathan praised Padikkal's resurgence, stating, “Devdutt Padikkal is poised to play a crucial role in RCB's success in IPL 2026. He has been scoring runs consistently in domestic cricket across various formats and appears to be a significantly improved player. Previously, he faced challenges with his timing, but those days are behind him. Now, he exudes confidence.”

He also noted a shift in RCB's strategy, saying, “In the past, they heavily depended on stars like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle to secure victories. However, that dynamic has evolved. The current squad is filled with match-winners, which is a remarkable development.”

Looking ahead to IPL 2026, Pathan acknowledged potential injury concerns, particularly regarding Josh Hazlewood's fitness. However, he reassured fans that RCB has solid backups in Nuwan Thushara and Jacob Duffy, who can step in if Hazlewood encounters fitness issues, further strengthening the team.