Royal Challengers Bengaluru batter Virat Kohli was seen wearing a bandage on his left leg during a training session ahead of his side's IPL 2026 clash against Lucknow Super Giants, raising fresh concerns about his fitness.
The development comes just days after Kohli dealt with illness and ankle discomfort during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's previous match against Mumbai Indians.
Virat Kohli spotted with strapped leg during training
Kohli attended the team's training session at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where he was seen interacting with teammates and support staff while wearing visible strapping on his left leg.
In a video shared on social media, Kohli was seen meeting Lucknow Super Giants support staff member Kane Williamson and captain Rishabh Pant, with the bandage on his leg clearly noticeable.
Despite the visible strapping, Kohli participated in batting practice and spent time in the nets, suggesting he is continuing preparations ahead of the upcoming fixture.
Reports earlier had indicated that Kohli was managing discomfort following the Mumbai Indians match, where he appeared less fluent than usual during his innings.
Recent match absence raised fitness questions
During the previous match against Mumbai Indians, Kohli scored a composed 50 off 38 deliveries but did not take the field later in the game, remaining in the dressing room while wearing a jacket.
His absence from the field had already triggered speculation about fitness concerns, particularly after reports suggested he was dealing with fever and ankle discomfort following the match.
The sight of strapping on his leg during practice has added to those concerns, although there has been no official confirmation from the franchise regarding the extent of the issue.
Virat Kohli remains in strong batting form this season
Despite recent fitness concerns, Kohli has been among Royal Challengers Bengaluru's most consistent batters in IPL 2026.
In four matches so far this season, he has scored **179 runs at an average of 59.66 and a strike rate of 162.72**, including two half-centuries, with a best score of 69 not out.
His contribution in the win against Mumbai Indians included a 50-run knock that helped RCB post a commanding total of 240/4.
Final call on Virat Kohli likely closer to match time
While Kohli's participation in training is a positive sign, his match availability against Lucknow Super Giants is likely to be determined closer to toss time, depending on his recovery and comfort levels.
For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Kohli's fitness will remain a key focus as they prepare for a crucial home fixture in the ongoing IPL 2026 season.
