Sanjay Manjrekar warns Virat Kohli against changing approach as RCB enter “dange – IPL 2026: Sanjay Manjrekar Advises Virat Kohli on RCB Strategy Ahead of Playoffs

The High-Stakes Qualifier: RCB vs. Gujarat Titans

The 2026 Indian Premier League season has reached its fever pitch as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) prepare for a blockbuster opening qualifier against the Gujarat Titans. Both teams have dominated the proceedings this year, neck-and-neck at the top of the points table with 18 points each. While RCB holds the top spot, the momentum leading into the playoffs tells a compelling story, with the Titans winning four of their last five matches compared to RCB’s two. As these heavyweights prepare for a high-intensity showdown, the spotlight remains firmly on RCB’s talisman, Virat Kohli.

Sanjay Manjrekar’s Tactical Insight

Former Indian cricketer and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has shared his perspective on how RCB should navigate the pressure of the knockouts. Manjrekar emphasizes that the secret to RCB’s success this season has not been the individual brilliance of a single player, but a collective, balanced team approach. He warns that reverting to old habits could prove detrimental in the high-pressure environment of the final stages.

Speaking on the team’s current dynamic, Manjrekar noted, “The approach of RCB must remain the same. Virat Kohli is a key player, but everything does not hinge on him; that is how they have become such a good team.” This sentiment reflects a significant shift in RCB’s campaign, which has moved away from a singular reliance on their veteran star.

The Danger of Over-Responsibility

A recurring theme in Kohli’s illustrious career has been his willingness to carry the weight of the entire team on his shoulders during crunch games. Manjrekar believes this instinct, while well-intentioned, could be a tactical liability. “It is important for Virat to keep playing in the same fashion, because he has a tendency in the final stages to take too much of the onus on himself, and if he does that, that is dangerous territory for RCB to be in. So, I think they should keep the same template,” Manjrekar explained.

This “new” aggressive template that Kohli has adopted throughout 2026 has been pivotal. By maintaining a high strike rate and playing with freedom, Kohli has ensured that he remains a catalyst for the team’s total rather than just an anchor. Abandoning this newfound aggression to play a ‘safe’ innings could allow opposition bowlers to dictate the pace of the game, a situation RCB must avoid at all costs.

Kohli’s Commanding Season

The 37-year-old legend has once again proven his worth as a cornerstone of the RCB batting order. Across 14 matches, Kohli has amassed an impressive 557 runs at a strike rate of 163.82. His season has been highlighted by one century and four half-centuries, demonstrating both his longevity and his ability to adapt to the modern requirements of T20 cricket.

However, the strength of this RCB side lies in its depth. Kohli is supported by a formidable lineup, including:

• Devdutt Padikkal: The team’s second-highest run-getter with 433 runs.
• Rajat Patidar: The skipper has provided stability with 393 runs in 13 appearances.
• Tim David: A crucial power-hitter, ranking fourth with 277 runs.
• Phil Salt: An impact player who has contributed 202 runs in just six matches.

Looking Ahead to the Qualifier

The rivalry between RCB and the Gujarat Titans has been one of the defining narratives of IPL 2026. Having shared the spoils during the league stage—with Kohli dominating at the Chinnaswamy and the Titans roaring back in Ahmedabad—the upcoming qualifier promises to be a tactical chess match. If RCB can keep the pressure off Kohli and allow him to play his natural, aggressive game, they stand a fantastic chance of advancing directly to the final. For now, the message from the experts is clear: trust the system, trust the team, and let Kohli continue his aggressive dominance.