IPL 2026: Former Pakistan cricketers credit 'mastermind' Virat Kohli for RCB's transformation

Former Pakistan cricketers Basit Ali and Kamran Akmal have praised the Royal Challengers Bengaluru for their performances, hailing their talisman Virat Kohli as the mastermind behind their resurgence.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru lifted their first IPL title in 2025, and have won their first two games of the 2026 season comfortably, against the Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings.

"RCB have become a proper team now. Initially, about 4-5 years ago, I felt that they had a weak bowling attack. Now, with their batting lineup, they have the likes of Jacob Duffy and someone like Krunal Pandya; these players have had a significant impact," Basit said on the Game Plan podcast.

"The mastermind on the ground is Virat Kohli. The captain's name may be Rajat Patidar, but Tim David-it is like book cricket, where you open the book, and it is either a four or a six. The manner in which he hits is amazing," he added.

Akmal praised the work of coach Andy Flower and mentor Dinesh Karthik for the way they have built the squad, and expressed his shock at the ease at which they got Tim David, who was released by the Mumbai Indians. David scored an unbeaten 70 off just 25 balls against the Super Kings.

"Credit goes to Andy Flower and Dinesh Karthik. I was watching a few of their videos, and their planning seems to have started 1-2 months back over what needs to be done now. What type of team did we need to make? I am shocked that MI released Tim David. I hope RCB use him for the next 10 years and not let him go," Akmal said.

'Look at his hunger and approach' - Akmal on Virat Kohli

Akmal further praised Virat Kohli’s preparation for the season, speaking of how he has become more aggressive with his batting this season. Kohli scored an unbeaten 69 in the opening game against the Sunrisers.

"I think other teams will find it hard to beat them. Have you seen Virat Kohli's batting approach? He has become even more aggressive this season. Every year, if you observe, he is preparing like one should in modern-day cricket. What does the team need? How should we play our cricket? Just look at his hunger and his approach," noted Akmal.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to face the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on April 12.