Virat Kohli's Stellar Performance Leads RCB to Victory Over GT

In a thrilling IPL match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru triumphed over Gujarat Titans, thanks to Virat Kohli's impressive 81 runs. Assistant coach Vijay Dhaiya praised Kohli's relentless drive and high standards, highlighting his ability to dominate challenging pitches. Despite early setbacks, RCB's top order, including Devdutt Padikkal, rose to the occasion, ensuring a steady chase. Krunal Pandya's late heroics sealed the victory, propelling RCB to second place in the points table. Read on for a detailed recap of the match and Kohli's standout performance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 25, 2026, 08:56 IST

RCB Triumphs with Kohli's Brilliant Knock

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], April 25: After the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a five-wicket victory against the Gujarat Titans (GT), assistant coach Vijay Dhaiya commended Virat Kohli for his remarkable intensity, awareness, and unwavering mindset. He emphasized that Kohli continues to set a high standard with his discipline and desire for improvement.

During the post-match press conference, Dhaiya praised Kohli's exceptional approach to the game, highlighting that his energy and awareness extend beyond mere skill and game sense.

“It’s truly impressive. If you observe his energy... his awareness and eagerness,” Dhaiya remarked, noting that Kohli felt dissatisfied despite his performance. “After the match, he expressed disappointment, stating he could have turned this into a century,” he added.

Dhaiya pointed out that such a mindset reflects Kohli's high expectations, mentioning how the RCB batter made a challenging pitch appear manageable through his dominance. “Kohli made the surface look simple. It wasn’t an easy wicket... when you control the situation, you dictate where the bowler bowls,” he explained.

He also praised Kohli's ability to apply pressure, stating that the veteran's mindset distinguishes him from others. “His determination to excel... his mindset sets him apart from many,” he noted.

Dhaiya further emphasized Kohli's fitness and work ethic, mentioning how he continues to motivate younger players on the field. “He remains one of the best runners... encouraging youngsters to take two,” he said.

Describing Kohli's inner drive, Dhaiya referred to him as 'Ziddi' in a positive light—someone committed to continuous improvement. “He’s not playing to prove anything to anyone. It’s about the 'man in the mirror'... he aims to be better than he was yesterday,” he stated.

In their chase of 206 runs, RCB faced an early setback when GT pacer Mohammed Siraj dismissed opener Jacob Bethell, leaving RCB at 26/1 in just three overs. However, the remaining top order stepped up. Virat Kohli, with a stellar 81 runs off 44 balls, set the pace with a classic half-century, while Devdutt Padikkal contributed significantly with 55 runs off 27 balls.

The pair maintained a steady flow of runs, ensuring the required rate remained manageable. They formed a solid partnership, amassing 115 runs in just 59 balls.

After the quick dismissals of Kohli and Padikkal, the match tightened during the middle overs as Rashid Khan and Manav Suthar claimed crucial wickets, leaving RCB at 175/5 after 16 overs.

RCB faced challenges in their chase, losing Rajat Patidar (8) and Jitesh Sharma (10). With 31 runs needed from the last four overs, the pressure mounted, but Krunal Pandya (23 runs not out off 12 balls) emerged as the hero for the home team.

Krunal aggressively attacked the GT bowlers, scoring 15 runs in the 18th over, significantly easing the pressure. Tim David also contributed with a quick 10 runs off nine balls.

In the 19th over, Krunal sealed the victory by pulling a short ball from Jason Holder to the deep square leg area for a single, leading RCB to a total of 206/5 in 18.5 overs. This win earned RCB two crucial points, elevating them to second place in the IPL 2026 points table, now holding 10 points from seven matches with five wins and two losses.