Virat Kohli returned to form in spectacular fashion, smashing an unbeaten 105 to guide Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a six-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2026 match on Wednesday. Chasing a target of 193 in Raipur, RCB achieved the target with five balls to spare, thanks largely to Kohli's composed innings after a difficult period that included two consecutive ducks.
The former RCB captain kept his celebration muted after reaching his century, emphasizing that the team's position in the points table was more important than personal milestones. Kohli stated that pressure motivates him and helps elevate his game.
"The celebration wasn't a big one because we know the importance of points. There's a reason why people say pressure is a privilege. Good pressure always makes you improve your game," Kohli said after receiving the Player of the Match award.
He added, "My positions at the crease, not trying anything extravagant, find the gaps, staying in the present, I was able to back my game, risk-free cricket."
Kohli's 60-ball innings featured 11 fours and three sixes, while Devdutt Padikkal contributed a valuable 39. Earlier, KKR posted 192/4, with useful contributions from Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Cameron Green. Kartik Tyagi impressed for KKR, taking 3/32.
This victory propelled RCB to the top of the IPL table with 16 points from 12 matches. Captain Rajat Patidar praised the team's all-round effort and emphasized the importance of staying focused on one game at a time.
"It feels great. Everyone came in at different stages and did their job for the team," Patidar said. Praising Kohli, he added, "I don't have words, but he is used to doing great things."
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