RCB Faces SRH in IPL 2026: Kohli Sets New Record Despite Early Dismissal

RCB's Final League Match Against SRH

In their concluding league match of IPL 2026, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) took on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. The spotlight was on Virat Kohli as RCB aimed to chase a daunting target of 256 runs. Unfortunately, Kohli's innings was cut short as he managed only 15 runs off 11 balls. Nevertheless, he achieved a remarkable milestone, marking yet another world record.

Kohli formed a significant 60-run opening partnership with Venkatesh Iyer, bringing his total to 211 fifty-plus opening stands in his T20 career. This achievement surpassed England's Alex Hales, who has 210 such stands. Alongside Kohli and Hales, only David Warner has surpassed the 200 mark in fifty-plus scores in T20s.

Venkatesh Iyer Steps Up for RCB

Why Venkatesh Iyer, And Not Jacob Bethell, Opened For RCB

During the toss, RCB's captain Rajat Patidar announced his return to the squad after missing the previous match due to a concussion. Jacob Bethell was sidelined due to a finger injury, leading to Venkatesh Iyer taking the opening position. Iyer had previously earned the Player of the Match title for his performance against Punjab Kings (PBKS) and continued his impressive form by scoring 44 runs off just 19 balls.

SRH's Impressive Batting Display

SRH Slammed 255 After 20 Overs

Winning the toss, SRH opted to bat first and started strong with Abhishek Sharma leading the charge, scoring 56 runs from 21 balls. He formed crucial partnerships with Travis Head and Ishan Kishan for the first two wickets. Kishan then partnered with Heinrich Klaasen, putting together a formidable 113-run stand for the third wicket, with Klaasen contributing 51 runs. Kishan emerged as the top scorer with 79 runs, while Nitish Reddy added a quick 29 runs off 12 balls, helping SRH finish at 255/4 after their 20 overs.