Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma - two modern-day mavericks of Indian cricket have been a focal point as the Indian Premier League 2026 continues to gain pace.
The IPL 2026 season is the second outing for the Indian veteran duo since their retirement from the T20 format for India, and for their respective teams, they still remain a pivotal part.
Two of Indian cricket's greatest modern icons continue to defy age and expectations. Virat Kohli (37) and Rohit Sharma (38), in their 19th IPL campaigns, are delivering explosive starts for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Mumbai Indians (MI) respectively, blending experience with T20 aggression.
Virat Kohli Performance in IPL 2026
Kohli, retained by RCB for ₹21 crore as the defending champions' cornerstone, has been electric in two matches. He has scored 97 runs at an average of 97.00 and a blistering strike rate of 173.21, with one unbeaten fifty. His season-opener masterclass against Sunrisers Hyderabad-an unbeaten 69 off just 38 balls (5 fours, 5 sixes)-anchored a record chase of 202 in 15.4 overs, securing a six-wicket win. Against Chennai Super Kings, he added a quick 28 off 18. Kohli's controlled powerplay approach and chase expertise have powered RCB to two wins from two games and a lofty net run rate.
Virat Kohli IPL 2026 Match by Match Stats
vs Sunrisers Hyderabad - 69* (38)
vs Chennai Super Kings - 28 (18)
Rohit Sharma Performance in IPL 2026
Rohit, MI's explosive opener, has played three matches and notched 118 runs at 39.33 average and 168.57 strike rate, highlighted by a sensational 78 off 38 balls (6 fours, 6 sixes) against Kolkata Knight Riders. That knock featured his fastest IPL fifty and helped chase down 221, while also breaking records for most runs against a single opponent (1,161 vs KKR). He followed with a gritty 35 on a tricky Delhi pitch. MI sit mid-table with one win in three, but Rohit's leadership and muscle memory have been vital.
Rohit Sharma IPL 2026 Match by Match Stats
vs Kolkata Knight Riders - 78 (38)
vs Delhi Capitals - 35 (26)
vs Rajasthan Royals - 5 (5)
Virat Kohli vs Rohit Sharma IPL 2026 Comparison
| Virat Kohli | Rohit Sharma | |
| Match | 2 | 3 |
| Innings | 2 | 3 |
| Runs | 97 | 118 |
| Average | 97.00 | 39.33 |
| Strike Rate | 173.22 | 168.58 |
| Highest Score | 69* | 78 |
| Fifties | 1 | 1 |
| Centuries | - | - |
| Fours | 7 | 11 |
| Sixes | 6 | 7 |
**All Stats are Updated till April 9
Virat Kohli vs Rohit Sharma in Orange Cap Race
As of April 9, Rohit Sharma sits 5th in the Orange Cap list, while Virat Kohli is 14th, having played a match less.
