![Virat Kohli and Josh Hazlewood [Source: AP Photos]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1776228376455_Virat Kohli and Hazlewood.jpg)
Virat Kohli and Josh Hazlewood [Source: AP Photos]
In a major update, Virat Kohli’s availability for the upcoming IPL 2026 match between RCB and LSG has become uncertain. This is mainly because Kohli picked up a slight ankle injury during the recent match against Mumbai Indians.
As a result, fans and team management are now concerned about whether he will be fit to play against LSG at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Moreover, it was reported that Virat Kohli was not feeling completely well even during the previous match. Therefore, his overall fitness is currently being closely monitored by the team.
How Kohli got injured?
During the match held at the Wankhede Stadium on April 12, Virat walked off the field due to discomfort in his ankle. In addition, he did not return to the field later and was seen sitting outside wearing a jacket, which further raised concerns.
However, despite his absence on the field later in the game, RCB delivered a strong performance. The team scored a massive total of 240 runs for 4 wickets. This impressive score was largely due to excellent batting by Phil Salt and Rajat Patidar.
Virat Kohli himself contributed with a solid half-century, scoring 50 runs off 38 balls. Furthermore, Salt played an aggressive innings of 78 runs, while Patidar added a quick 53 runs. Together, these performances helped RCB secure an 18-run victory, as Mumbai Indians could only manage 222 runs.
Virat Kohli’s recent form
Even though there are injury concerns, Virat Kohli has been in great form this season. So far, he has scored 179 runs in four matches, with an impressive average of nearly 60 and a high strike rate.
Also Read: Will Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan Play RCB vs LSG Match In IPL 2026?
Meanwhile, Kohli was seen attending practice sessions ahead of the upcoming match. He looked relaxed and interacted normally with his teammates. However, there is a slight concern as he was seen with his left knee strapped.
Virat Kohli checks his run
In addition, a recent training video showed Kohli checking his running carefully. He appeared to be testing himself to ensure he was fit enough to play. Even though he spent a good amount of time batting in the nets, it is still unclear whether he will be part of the final playing XI.
Josh Hazlewood doubtful for RCB vs LSG
Apart from Virat Kohli, RCB might also face another setback. Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is also doubtful for the match, as he returned late from Mumbai and may not be fully ready.
Notably, RCB had dropped Josh Hazlewood in their previous match against Mumbai Indians. In his place, they included New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy.
Earlier, Josh Hazlewood had returned to the playing XI against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. Although he picked up the wickets of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag, he had an expensive outing, conceding 44 runs in his four overs. RCB still managed to win that match by six wickets at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.
Currently, RCB are in a strong position in the points table, standing third with six points. They are just behind Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings.
Now, as they prepare to face LSG in Bengaluru on April 15, all eyes will be on Kohli’s fitness. In conclusion, although there are positive signs from training, it is still not completely clear whether he will play in this important match.
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