Andy Flower, coach of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, noted that Virat Kohli is in top form and highly motivated as the team gears up to defend their IPL title.
Virat Kohli, aged 37, will lead Bengaluru against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL season opener this Saturday.
Bengaluru secured their first IPL championship last season after multiple unsuccessful attempts.
Following his retirement from Test and T20 internationals, Kohli now solely competes for India in the 50-over format.
Flower expressed confidence in Kohli’s mental readiness, highlighting his hunger and exceptional performance during training sessions.
RCB is back at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, acknowledging the bittersweet return after the tragic incident where 11 fans lost their lives celebrating the team’s victory last year.
To honor the fans, players will wear black armbands, and 11 seats will remain permanently vacant.
“The previous season was a mix of professional achievement and emotional turmoil for everyone,” Flower stated, emphasizing the need to move forward from the past and focus on the present.
The unfortunate incident occurred following RCB’s victory over Punjab Kings in the final, which led to a commemorative homecoming parade in Ahmedabad.