Royal Challengers Bengaluru wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma has shared his predictions ahead of the IPL 2026 season, naming Virat Kohli as the frontrunner to claim the Orange Cap. He also offered his views on the likely top four teams in the points table, notably leaving out the five-time champions from a potential playoff berth.
The previous edition of the tournament concluded with a dramatic finish as Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured their maiden IPL title. The franchise has since come under new ownership with the Birla Group and will now aim to retain the trophy in the upcoming campaign.
Rajat Patidar is set to continue leading the side, which retains most of its key players from last season while also adding reinforcements such as former KKR vice-captain Venkatesh Iyer and emerging Indian talent Mangesh Yadav.
Sharma made his predictions during a podcast appearance with YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, where he was asked to share his expectations for the season. When questioned about the eventual Orange Cap holder, the RCB batter promptly named veteran teammate Virat Kohli as the likely leading run-scorer.
He expressed confidence that Kohli’s strong performances for India in recent home ODI series against South Africa and New Zealand could translate into another prolific IPL campaign. Sharma also suggested that Kohli’s form might even see him surpass his own record tally of 973 runs in a single IPL season.
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Purple Cap Prediction
Sharma was also asked to identify a potential Purple Cap winner. He predicted that Varun Chakravarthy could emerge as the tournament’s top wicket-taker.
The Kolkata Knight Riders spinner has been among India’s standout performers in T20Is and has consistently ranked among KKR’s leading wicket-takers in the IPL. However, his form dipped during the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Top Four Forecast
Turning to the race for playoff qualification, Sharma included defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru among his projected top four teams. He also named his former franchise, Punjab Kings — runners-up last season — along with Mumbai Indians, who were among the top four sides in the previous campaign.
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For the final playoff position, Sharma backed Sunrisers Hyderabad, who narrowly missed out last time. He noted that recent performances from players such as stand-in captain Ishan Kishan could strengthen their chances of finishing in the top four.
