MI vs RCB: Why isn't Virat Kohli fielding against Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026?

The Mumbai Indians hosted Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a high-stakes game in the IPL 2026 on Sunday, April 12, 2026. The game saw the five-time IPL champions winning the toss and invited the rivals to bat first. Riding high on Philip Salt’s 36-ball 78 and half centuries by Virat Kohli as well as skipper Rajat Patidar, the visitors managed to up a monumental total of 240 runs with the loss of four wickets.

After dominating the Wankhede Stadium with their power-hitting skills, the RCB players stepped in to restrict Mumbai Indians early and rebound from their recent setback faced against Rajasthan Royals. However, former skipper Virat Kohli didn’t step into the field during MI’s chase. As per reports from Cricbuzz, Kohli has been struggling with an ankle

issue and suffered an ankle twist.

He was spotted sitting in the dug-out, and was replaced by Jacob Bethell as an injury replacement. As of now, there is no update on Kohli’s exact nature of injury, but fans are hoping for the star batter to get better before the next match.

VIRAT KOHLI CURRENTLY OFF THE FIELD & HE'S SITTING IN DRESSING ROOM. 🥺 - Hope everything is fine with King! 🤞 pic.twitter.com/DhOMUxbyD5

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) April 12, 2026

Virat Kohli not in the best of health, reveals Ravi Shastri

The former Indian captain faced heavy-criticism for his slow knock, after he utilized 37 balls to score a 50. Amid the criticism, former India head coach and presenter Ravi Shastri revealed that the star batter has been facing some health issues, which became a reason for his slow play and a hampered strike rate. “Virat Kohli is not in the best of health lately,” said Shastri on air during MI vs RCB. Not only this, but Kohli was also seen wearing a jacket, further adding to the speculations.

Coming back to his batting, Kohli was visibly furious with his slow knock. While making his way back to the pavilion, he was seen throwing his gloves at the boundary and slammed his helmet in anger. Needless to say, the video went viral on social media, garnering attention from fans.