IPL 2026: Virat Kohli Takes on Bowling Duties to Support Phil Salt – Watch the Action!
Virat Kohli and Phil Salt were recently spotted training together in a Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) practice session, as showcased in a video shared by the team. In the footage, Kohli took on the role of bowler, assisting Salt in refining his batting technique amid a challenging phase for the English cricketer. The duo has become a formidable opening partnership in the Indian Premier League (IPL), playing a pivotal role in RCB’s title victory last season after an 18-year wait.
Kohli and Salt’s Partnership Dynamics
The partnership between Kohli and Salt has proven to be one of the most explosive in the IPL. Over the course of 13 innings, they have accumulated a remarkable 565 runs together. Their standout performance came against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where they forged a 95-run partnership in just 8.3 overs while chasing a target of 175. In that match, Salt scored 56 runs off 31 balls, while Kohli remained unbeaten at 59 runs from 36 deliveries. Another impressive display occurred against the Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur, where they combined for a 92-run opening stand, leading RCB to a nine-wicket victory. Salt contributed 65 runs off 33 balls, and Kohli finished with 62 not out from 45 balls.
Individual Contributions to RCB’s Success
In the 2025 IPL season, both players made significant contributions to RCB’s title campaign. Phil Salt scored a total of 403 runs in 13 innings, boasting an impressive strike rate of 175.98, which included four half-centuries. Virat Kohli also had a stellar season, amassing 657 runs in 15 matches at an average of 54.75. His performance was crucial in the final against Punjab Kings, where he scored 43 runs, helping secure the championship for RCB.
Kohli’s Support for Salt Amid Challenges
Despite facing a rough patch during the T20 World Cup 2026, where Phil Salt managed only 130 runs in eight innings, Kohli has expressed unwavering support for his opening partner. Salt is still regarded as one of the most explosive T20 batters globally. RCB’s Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Salt’s potential to bounce back ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Bobat highlighted Salt’s enjoyment of playing for RCB and his strong partnership with Kohli, noting that the team is confident in Salt’s abilities. He anticipates an exciting season ahead, with both players aiming to put pressure on opposing teams as they take to the field together.
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