Jitesh Sharma picks all-time IPL XI; no room for Virat Kohli

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma sparked fresh debate among cricket fans after revealing his all-time record Indian Premier League (IPL) XI ahead of the 2026 season. Shared via the Review Tracker An Instagram handle, Jitesh’s selection features some of the most iconic artists in IPL history. However, the biggest talking point has been the absence of the former RCB captain. Virat Kohlione of the most prolific scorers in the league.

Jitesh Sharma names his all-time IPL XI

Starry high and middle order

The XI chosen by Jitesh reflects a clear preference for match-winners who have consistently influenced matches over several IPL seasons. At the top of the order, he chose Rohit Sharma alongside the former Deccan Chargers and Kings XI Punjab legend Adam Gilchrist (2069 races). The combination marries Rohit’s calm leadership and clutch performance with Gilchrist’s explosive intent in the powerplay. Rohit is the second all-time highest scorer in IPL, having accumulated 7046 runs in 272 matches.

The middle order is equally formidable, with Suryakumar Yadav (4311 runs)widely admired for redefining the modern T20 batting and legendary South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis (2427 runs and 65 wickets)whose consistency with bat and ball made him invaluable during his time in the IPL.

Powerful finish with iconic names

For the final role, Jitesh opted for a trio that has shaped the history of the IPL in different ways. Hardik Pandya (2749 runs and 78 wickets) brings explosive hitting and seam bowling, while MS Dhoni (5439 runs) enters as a wicketkeeper and leader, a nod to his unparalleled legacy as captain and finisher.

Supplementing stick 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-game temperament. Versatile Axar Patel (1916 runs and 128 wickets) offers balance and reliability in the middle overs, while the mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy (100 wickets) adds unpredictability.

The rapid attack is led by Jasprit Bumrah (183 wickets)widely regarded as the deadliest IPL fast bowler of his generation. Australian fast Josh Hazlewood (57 wickets) completes the XI, providing bounce, discipline and consistency in high-pressure matches.

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No room for Virat Kohli

Kohli’s exclusion from Jitesh’s all-time IPL XI came as a major surprise, given that Kohli is the highest run-scorer in the history of the league. Over the years, Kohli has been one of the most consistent players in the IPL, combining longevity and winning impact at the top of the order. His record-breaking 2016 season, his leadership for RCB and his ability to anchor and accelerate an innings made him a defining figure in the tournament. Given his stature and statistical dominance, many fans expected Kohli to be an automatic pick, which is why his absence sparked a lot of discussion and contrasting opinions on social media. Notably, Kohli is the only player to cross the 8,000-run mark in IPL, having scored 8,661 runs in 267 matches 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

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