IPL 2026: Why did RCB field Virat Kohli as 'Impact Player' for First Time Against LSG?

Bengaluru: In the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Wednesday (April 15), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star batsman Virat Kohli was seen in a different role. Kohli was selected as an 'Impact Player' for this match. For the first time in the history of the IPL, Kohli has taken on the role of an 'Impact Player.'

Virat Kohli appeared to be struggling with an injury during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's previous match against the Mumbai Indians (MI). Kohli sustained an ankle injury during that match, following which he did not take the field to bowl during the Mumbai Indians' innings. Even while batting in that fixture, Kohli appeared to be in discomfort; despite this, he managed to score 50 runs.

Why was reson for RCB's decision on Virat Kohli?

Virat Kohli was deemed fully fit only for batting purposes. Consequently, he was not included in the starting Playing XI for the match against the Lucknow Super Giants. Instead, a strategy was adopted to utilize him solely for batting in the capacity of an 'Impact Player.' This strategy yielded a dual benefit for RCB: on one hand, the team secured the services of an experienced batsman like Kohli, while on the other, he was shielded from the additional physical strain and risk of injury associated with fielding for 20 overs.

Is RCB Unwilling to Take Risks with Virat Kohli?

Virat Kohli is the most vital component of RCB's batting lineup. His role becomes even more critical on grounds like the Chinnaswamy Stadium, where the start of an innings often dictates the entire trajectory of the match. An ankle injury is far more likely to cause complications during fielding than during batting.

Activities such as sprinting, sudden changes in direction, fielding near the boundary, and constant movement carry the risk of aggravating the injury. Given this situation, RCB sought to strike a middle ground regarding Virat Kohli—one that would allow him to contribute with the bat without exacerbating his injury. In this particular match, RCB won the toss and elected to bowl first, thereby granting the team the flexibility to utilize Kohli for batting during the second innings.

Concerns regarding Virat Kohli's fitness had been lingering over the past few days. He was seen wearing a strap during the practice session, but he went through an extended net session and appeared quite comfortable. Captain Rajat Patidar also stated that Kohli currently looks fine, although he left the final decision to the medical team.

RCB included Josh Hazlewood in their Playing XI for this match, while Jacob Duffy missed out. On the other hand, the Lucknow Super Giants placed their trust in the same team that had lost their previous match.