IPL 13: Virat Kohli readies his RCB gear

Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli shared a glimpse of his gear that he is likely to use during the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 13th edition of the cash-rich league is currently scheduled be played from September 19 in the UAE.

Kohli shared a photo on his Instagram story, which had five bats and a pair of red-coloured pads all packed. Kohli also used the emoticons 'fingers crossed' and 'love' for the picture.

The IPL is set to be Indian cricketers' first assignment since March when coronavirus pandemic destroyed the cricketing calendar.

While international cricket recently returned with #raisethebat Test series between England and West Indies, Indian cricketers have had to be content with being at home due to the rising COVID-19 cases in the country.

Kohli will hope a change in venue will bring in luck as RCB look to end their IPL trophy drought. Pointing towards their high-profile batting order, former Australia spinner Brad Hogg had earlier tipped RCB to finally win the tournament this time around.

"They (RCB) will have a big chance to take out an IPL. They have always had good stock on paper but they have never been able to go out and get the job done," Hogg said in video uploaded on his YouTube channel.

"Now, with the inclusion of (Aaron) Finch at the top, he will be able to dominate the powerplay overs...get some quick runs and relieve the pressure off AB de Villiers and Virat Kohli in the middle-order.

"Also, their bowling attack looks strong with Dale Steyn and Kane Richardson, and they have a better team balance as compared to last couple of years. They will have a better strategy going into the tournament," he added.