Virat Kohli Responds to Charter Flight Rumors Ahead of IPL 2026

Virat Kohli has humorously responded to rumors about his supposed charter flights between London and India during the IPL 2026 season. The star cricketer clarified the misinformation on Instagram, while also sharing insights about his family life and recent return to India. As RCB gears up for their campaign, Kohli's legacy as the only player to have represented the franchise in all IPL seasons adds to the excitement. The team is set to kick off their season against Sunrisers Hyderabad, marking a significant return of cricket to Bengaluru.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 22, 2026, 14:39 IST

Kohli's Reaction to Flight Claims

Virat Kohli recently addressed a rumor circulating on Instagram regarding his supposed plans to travel between London and India during the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) matches. The claim suggested that he had requested a charter flight from the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as they prepare for the upcoming season, where they aim to defend their title. Kohli humorously dismissed the allegation by sharing a story with two laughing emojis, indicating that the claim was unfounded. His response quickly gained traction online, clarifying the misinformation.

Kohli's Family and Recent Arrival in India

In recent years, it has been noted that Kohli and his family have relocated to London. He is married to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, and they have two children: a daughter named Vamika, born in 2021, and a son named Akaay, born in 2024. Kohli returned to India last week for the 2026 IPL season and has already joined the RCB training camp, where he has been seen preparing for the matches.

RCB's Upcoming IPL 2026 Season

Starting Strong Against SRH

The RCB will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday, March 28. The team is eager to build on their legacy after finally clinching the IPL trophy in 2025, ending an 18-season wait by defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the final held at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. This match will also signify the return of major cricket events to Bengaluru following a tragic incident last year that had temporarily restricted the stadium from hosting large crowds. The Karnataka government recently approved the venue for IPL 2026 matches, although RCB will play two of their home games in Raipur this season.

Kohli's Unmatched Legacy with RCB

Consistency in the IPL

Virat Kohli holds a unique record in IPL history, being the only player to have represented the same franchise throughout all 19 seasons since the league's inception in 2008. He was initially signed during the U19 player draft and has been retained in several mega auctions, including those in 2011, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2025. At 37 years old, Kohli remains the only active player in the league who has never participated in a player auction.