Many fans were worried about Virat Kohli’s absence from the next IPL season. But the latest news is that Virat Kohli will play for the RCB in IPL 2026 next season. Rumours spread that Kohli might leave RCB after rejecting a sponsorship deal. But those stories turned out to be false.
Why Did Rumours About Kohli Leaving RCB Start?
Kohli said no to a commercial sponsorship offer linked with the RCB franchise ownership group. Social media went mad thinking this meant he’s retiring. But cricket expert Aakash Chopra cleared up the mess, saying sponsorships and playing contracts differ.
“He has reportedly refused a commercial contract, but what does that mean? He will definitely play for RCB. If he is playing, he is definitely going to turn out for the same franchise,” Aakash Chopra said.
Off-field commercial deals don’t affect player retention contracts at all under IPL rules. Kohli rejected one business deal, but his playing contract with RCB stays rock solid. Fans worried for nothing when these rumours started spreading like wildfire across Twitter.
Virat Kohli’s Recent Success With RCB
Kohli had an amazing IPL 2025 season, scoring 657 runs in just 15 matches. He averaged 54.75, which ranks among his one of best IPL seasons. RCB finally won their first IPL trophy after 18 long years of waiting patiently.
Rajat Patidar was the captain of the side. Kohli’s batting took the team through hard situations. His skill and consistency helped younger players play better under pressure throughout the tournament. Kohli proved he’s still got plenty left in the tank despite being 37 now.
Kohli’s Commitment to RCB
Kohli said multiple times he wants to play for RCB till the end. He’s been with this franchise since IPL 2008. This shows the real meaning of loyalty. RCB will retain Kohli as their top priority before the 2026 auction happens.
The management knows Kohli brings fans, sponsors and wins to the team every season. His jersey sales alone make RCB tons of money beyond what they pay him. Kohli isn’t going anywhere and will finish his IPL career at Bengaluru for sure.
RCB fans can relax knowing their favourite player returns for another season next year. The sponsorship drama was just noise with no real substance behind it.
