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New Delhi: Before the start of IPL 2026, ‘King’ Virat Kohli of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has surprised the fans by selecting the best playing XI of the franchise so far. Virat, who has been playing only for RCB since the beginning of the IPL, included many legends in his all-time team, but left out current stars Mohammad Siraj and Josh Hazlewood.

Virat has entrusted the responsibility of opening on himself and ‘Universe Boss’ Chris Gayle. This pair is considered to be the most explosive opening partnership in the history of RCB. Gayle played the highest innings of IPL (175*) for RCB, which record still stands, while Virat is the highest run-scorer for the franchise.

In the middle order, Virat has placed his closest friend AB de Villiers at number 3. AB played many match-winning innings for RCB and is immortal in the hearts of the fans. At number 4, Virat chose former RCB player KL Rahul, who performed brilliantly for the team in 2013 and 2016. Rahul batted well on average for RCB.

After this, current captain Rajat Patidar has got the place at number 5 and experienced wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik has got the place at number 6. Karthik did wonders in the role of finisher for RCB.

Virat has chosen a balanced attack in bowling. Harshal Patel was included as a fast-bowling all-rounder, while Anil Kumble and Yuzvendra Chahal were given a chance in spin. Two foreign legends—Mitchell Starc and Dale Steyn—have been selected in fast bowling. Both of them bowled brilliantly for RCB in different periods.

Virat Kohli’s all-time RCB playing XI:

-Chris Gayle
– Virat Kohli
– AB de Villiers
– KL Rahul
– Rajat Patidar
Dinesh Karthik (wicketkeeper)
– Harshal Patel
– Anil Kumble
– Mitchell Starc
– Dale Steyn
– Yuzvendra Chahal