Kohli scored 49 for RCB in their win over LSG (Courtesy: AFP)

Virat Kohli to play as Impact Player against Delhi? Hazlewood provides key update

IPL 2026: Josh Hazlewood has opened up about the possibility of Virat Kohli being an impact sub once again for RCB when they face DC at the Chinnaswamy stadium on Saturday, April 18. Kohli donned the role of the impact sub for the first time in his career during the win over LSG.

17 Apr 2026, 13:21 by India Today Sports Desk · India Today

In Short

Kohli played as Impact substitute for the first time in IPL vs LSG
The RCB star said that he wasn't fully fit over the last few days
Kohli is confirmed to play against DC, says Josh Hazlewood

Virat Kohli assumed a new role for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their victory against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. For the first time in his Indian Premier League (IPL) career, Kohli served as the Impact substitute, playing only in the second half of the game as RCB chased down the target of 147 runs. Kohli scored 49 runs during the game.

Kohli had sustained an ankle injury during the win against Mumbai Indians (MI) in Mumbai and did not field for Bengaluru in the second half. The RCB star mentioned that he was not fully fit and had been unwell for the past few days. The question now arises: will Kohli continue as the Impact substitute for RCB in their upcoming match against Delhi Capitals (DC)?

In the pre-match press conference, Josh Hazlewood confirmed that Kohli would indeed play against DC but expressed uncertainty about the extent of his contribution on the field.

Hazlewood stated that RCB would be eager to have Kohli on the field, highlighting his energy and fielding prowess. "He’ll definitely play, it’s just about how much he can contribute in the field. He brings great energy and is one of our best fielders, so we’d love to have him fully out there. Knowing him, he’s not one to sit back, he always wants to be involved and make an impact," said Hazlewood.

'You Learn a Lot During Injury Layoff'

Hazlewood missed the initial games for RCB due to an injury but returned during the loss to Rajasthan Royals (RR). Although he did not perform well in that match, he quickly bounced back, delivering a Player of the Match performance against LSG by conceding just 20 runs in his four overs and taking one wicket.

Hazlewood remarked on the learning experience during his injury layoff, emphasising the importance of respecting the recovery process. "It’s been really pleasing to be back and contributing again. You learn a lot from time away due to injury, especially about respecting the recovery process. The focus has been on coming back fully ready and performing at this level," said Hazlewood.

RCB will aim to secure their fifth win of the campaign as they face DC in Bengaluru.

- Ends