With days to go for the Indian Premier League, RCB skipper Virat Kohli seems to be up for it. The inspirational leader had a word of motivation for the RCB fans ahead of the season opener against defending champions Mumbai Indians. Kohli took to Twitter on Tuesday and said that a ‘cracking’ contest awaits the side and the ‘heat is on’.

Kohli tweeted: “Hey RCB fans! We are back, proudly representing the red & gold brigade. A cracking contest awaits us as we face MI in our opening clash of #VIVOIPL. Tell me your mantra to #PlayBold using #KohliMantra. Mark your calendars – April 9, 7:30 PM. The heat is on!”

Kohli and Co would look to end the title drought. They have always had the side and the stars – but they have lacked consistency and that has led to erratic results in the past. They would like to turn a new leaf and for that to happen, the start is important.

They would rely on AB de Villiers again and hope he comes good as he is an impact player.

The red and gold brigade would like to get their campaign off to a winning start. The task will not be easy against a formidable Mumbai Indians – who would be chasing their third title in a row and record-extending sixth. Both sides are loaded with stars and it is pitted to be a cracker.

Currently, both sides are in Chennai – the venue where the IPL opener would take place. Chepauk Stadium would host the season opener.