The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) camp is buzzing with high spirits and laughter ahead of their much-anticipated IPL 2026 clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
During a practice session on Thursday, April 02, 2026, Virat Kohli stole the spotlight not with his signature cover drive, but with a hilarious imitation of teammate Romario Shepherd’s unique batting style.
Known for his intense game face, Kohli switched into “entertainer mode,” perfectly capturing Shepherd’s distinctive stance and exaggerated power-hitting follow-through. Shepherd, the West Indian all-rounder who has become a fan favorite for his unconventional technique, was seen laughing along with the rest of the squad as Kohli mimicked his high backlift and explosive hitting posture. The video of the imitation quickly went viral on social media, with fans praising the relaxed and bonded atmosphere within the RCB dressing room.
These light-hearted moments are seen as crucial for the defending champions as they navigate the high-pressure environment of the 2026 season. While the tournament’s intensity is at an all-time high—highlighted by recent on-field stare-downs and captaincy pressure—Kohli’s playful side reinforces his role as a senior leader who keeps the team environment lively. Such interactions underscore the importance of maintaining a balanced mindset during a long and demanding IPL season.
Beyond the practice nets, the week has been filled with major headlines across the league. From Delhi Capitals securing a narrow win over LSG to Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar 2 rewriting box office history, the cultural landscape of April 2026 is moving at a breakneck pace. For RCB fans, however, seeing their “King” in such a joyous mood ahead of the “Southern Derby” provides a significant confidence boost before they take the field at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.