Aaron Finch, the former Australian captain, was full of praise for Virat Kohli after the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star smashed a magnificent century against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Finch, who has played alongside Kohli in the IPL and for the national team, described the innings as 'absolutely class'. Kohli's unbeaten 104 off 63 balls, laced with 12 fours and 3 sixes, powered RCB to a formidable total of 201 for 5 in their 20 overs. In response, KKR could only manage 178 for 7, handing RCB a 23-run victory.
Kohli's Masterclass
Kohli's innings was a masterclass in pacing a T20 knock. He started cautiously, reaching his fifty off 37 balls, before accelerating in the death overs. His century came off just 58 balls, his eighth in the IPL, equalling the record for most hundreds in the tournament. Finch, watching from the commentary box, was visibly impressed. 'That is absolutely class from Virat Kohli. He showed his experience and class once again. The way he paced his innings, the way he took on the bowlers in the end, it was a treat to watch,' Finch said.
Key Partnerships
Kohli found able support from his teammates. He added 78 runs for the second wicket with Faf du Plessis, who scored 42 off 31 balls, and then a quickfire 67-run stand with Glenn Maxwell, who smashed 38 off 19 balls. Finch highlighted Kohli's ability to build partnerships. 'He always knows when to anchor and when to accelerate. That's what makes him one of the best in the business,' Finch added.
RCB's Bowling Performance
Chasing 202, KKR got off to a flying start with openers Sunil Narine and Phil Salt adding 56 in the powerplay. However, RCB's bowlers pulled things back in the middle overs. Wanindu Hasaranga was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3 for 32, while Josh Hazlewood and Mohammad Siraj took two wickets each. Finch praised RCB's bowling effort. 'They stuck to their plans and didn't panic. Hasaranga was brilliant in the middle overs, and the fast bowlers executed well at the death,' he said.
Impact on the Playoffs Race
The win was crucial for RCB as they kept their playoffs hopes alive. With 14 points from 13 matches, they are now fifth on the points table. KKR, on the other hand, slipped to third with 16 points from 14 games. Finch believes Kohli's form will be key for RCB's chances. 'If Virat continues to bat like this, RCB will be a dangerous team in the playoffs. He is a big-match player, and this innings will give the whole team a lot of confidence,' Finch concluded.
