Virat Kohli Turns Bowler to Test Opening Partner Phil Salt in RCB Nets
In a lighthearted yet competitive moment caught on camera ahead of the IPL 2026 season opener, Virat Kohli was seen swapping his bat for the ball during a Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) practice session. The veteran superstar took to the nets to bowl a series of medium-pace deliveries to his new opening partner, Phil Salt, as the duo looked to build chemistry and fine-tune their reflexes. The video, which has since gone viral on social media, shows Kohli sporting a wide grin while challenging Salt with a mix of cross-seam deliveries and slower balls, even managed to beat the Englishman’s outside edge on a couple of occasions.
The unconventional training drill highlights the relaxed yet focused atmosphere within the RCB camp as they prepare to face Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Salt, who was acquired by the franchise to provide explosive starts alongside Kohli, seemed to enjoy the challenge, jokingly signaling for a “DRS review” after one particularly close delivery. Beyond the fun, coaching staff noted that such interactions are vital for integrating new overseas players into the team’s culture. As the “King” continues to mentor the next generation of RCB talent, fans are eager to see if this camaraderie translates into a record-breaking opening partnership on the field this year.
