This pertinent information was promptly relayed to both RR and RCB. While RR chose to proceed as planned, RCB opted to err on the side of caution, notifying security personnel of their decision to cancel the scheduled practice session. Although RCB refrained from formally disclosing the rationale behind this abrupt change, it was evident that concerns for Kohli's safety played a pivotal role.

Also Read: Little room for error as RCB take on RR in power-hitting slugfest at the Motera

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Reflecting on these developments, Vijay Singha Jwala, a police officer, emphasized Kohli's stature as a national icon, underscoring the paramount importance of his security. Consequently, RCB deemed it prudent to minimize risks, electing to forgo their practice session altogether. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals, though apprised of the unfolding situation, proceeded with their training regimen without qualms.

Security protocols were notably heightened outside RCB's designated team hotel, where stringent measures were implemented to safeguard the players and staff. Exclusive entry points were established solely for RCB personnel, ensuring restricted access for outsiders, including IPL-accredited media personnel.

Further elaborating on the logistics, the report detailed the arrival of the RR contingent at the training venue via a designated "green corridor," escorted by multiple police convoys. Notably, the team captain, Sanju Samson, arrived belatedly, while a few key players, including Ravichandran Ashwin, Riyan Parag, and Yuzvendra Chahal, opted to abstain from the practice session, preferring to remain within the secure confines of the team hotel. Those who did attend training were under vigilant surveillance, with law enforcement officers maintaining a visible presence throughout the premises. In light of the prevailing security concerns, both RR and RCB were compelled to cancel the customary pre-match press conference, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all involved. 

Meanwhile, Kohli's sublime form in the ongoing IPL 2024 has seen him leading the run-chart with 708 runs from 14 innings, though questions keep cropping up about his strike rate at the top of the order.Kohli has scored a century, his eighth overall, this IPL season and five half-tons, a feat that has helped PCB make a dramatic turnaround to make the playoffs with six straight wins. Despite all the talk about Kohli's strike rate of 155.60 this season, it has been his best in the 17 years that he has played for RCB, an indicator that he is improvising and trying his best to better it further.

(With agency inputs)