Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma has ignited fresh debate among cricket fans after revealing his all-time Indian Premier League (IPL) XI ahead of the 2026 season. Shared via the Crictracker Instagram handle, Jitesh’s selection features some of the most iconic performers in IPL history. However, the biggest talking point has been the absence of former RCB captain Virat Kohli, one of the league’s most prolific run-scorers.
Jitesh Sharma names his all-time IPL XI
Star studded top and middle-order
Jitesh’s chosen XI reflects a clear preference for match-winners who have consistently influenced games across multiple IPL seasons. At the top of the order, he picked Rohit Sharma alongside former Deccan Chargers and Kings XI Punjab legend Adam Gilchrist (2069 runs). The combination blends Rohit’s calm leadership and clutch performances with Gilchrist’s explosive intent in the powerplay. Rohit is the second all-time leading run-scorer in IPL, having amassed 7046 runs in 272 matches.
The middle order is equally formidable, featuring Suryakumar Yadav (4311 runs), widely admired for redefining modern T20 batting, and legendary South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis (2427 runs and 65 wickets), whose consistency with both bat and ball made him invaluable during his IPL stint.
Power-packed finish with iconic names
For the finishing role, Jitesh opted for a trio that has shaped IPL history in different ways. Hardik Pandya (2749 runs and 78 wickets) brings explosive hitting and seam bowling, while MS Dhoni (5439 runs) slots in as wicketkeeper and leader, a nod to his unparalleled legacy as a captain and finisher.
Completing the batting firepower is AB de Villiers (5162 runs), whose ability to dominate bowlers in any situation made him one of the most feared batters the league has ever seen.
Balanced bowling attack with proven performers
Jitesh’s bowling unit focuses on control, variation, and big-match temperament. All-rounder Axar Patel (1916 runs and 128 wickets) provides balance and reliability in the middle overs, while mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy (100 wickets) adds unpredictability.
The pace attack is led by Jasprit Bumrah (183 wickets), widely regarded as the most lethal IPL fast bowler of his generation. Australian quick Josh Hazlewood (57 wickets) completes the XI, offering bounce, discipline, and consistency in high-pressure games.
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No place for Virat Kohli
The exclusion of Kohli from Jitesh’s all-time IPL XI has come as a major surprise, considering Kohli is the leading run-scorer in the history of the league. Over the years, Kohli has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL, combining longevity with match-winning impact at the top of the order. His record-breaking 2016 season, leadership for RCB, and ability to anchor as well as accelerate an innings have made him a defining figure of the tournament. Given his stature and statistical dominance, many fans expected Kohli to be an automatic choice, which is why his absence has sparked widespread discussion and contrasting opinions across social media. Notably, Kohli is the only player to cross 8,000 runs mark in IPL, having scored 8661 runs in 267 games with 8 hundreds and 63 half-centuries.
Jitesh Sharma’s all-time IPL XI:
Rohit Sharma, Adam Gilchrist, Suryakumar Yadav, Jacques Kallis, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni, AB de Villiers, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood
