Bengaluru: Virat Kohli narrowly missed out on his 66th IPL half-century, falling for 49 during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s successful chase against Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026.
Kohli shines but misses milestone
Chasing a modest target of 147, Kohli once again showcased his trademark composure at the crease. The star batter scored 49 off 34 balls, striking six boundaries and a six, and looked set to bring up another half-century.
However, just one run short of the milestone, Kohli attempted an aerial shot and was caught at long-on by Nicholas Pooran off the bowling of Avesh Khan.
His dismissal brought a visible reaction from the stands, where actor Anushka Sharma was present. She appeared disappointed as Kohli walked back after missing out on the landmark.
RCB seal comfortable win
Despite Kohli’s near miss, RCB completed the chase comfortably, reaching 149 for 5 in just 15.1 overs.
Captain Rajat Patidar contributed 27 runs, while Jitesh Sharma added a quick 23 to ensure there were no late hiccups.
Bowlers set up the victory
Earlier, RCB bowlers delivered a clinical performance to restrict LSG to just 146 runs — their lowest total of the season.
Fast bowler Rasikh Salam Dar starred with the ball, claiming an impressive four-wicket haul (4/24). He was well supported by Bhuvneshwar Kumar (3/27) and Krunal Pandya (2/38), while Josh Hazlewood chipped in with a wicket.
For LSG, Mitchell Marsh top-scored with 40 off 32 balls, while Ayush Badoni added 38 off 24. However, the team struggled to build momentum and were eventually bowled out in 20 overs.
LSG bowlers show brief fight
During the chase, Prince Yadav impressed with figures of 3/32, while Avesh Khan picked up two wickets. But the total proved too small to defend against a strong RCB batting lineup.
Brief scores
Lucknow Super Giants: 146 all out in 20 overs (Mitchell Marsh 40, Ayush Badoni 38; Rasikh Salam Dar 4/24, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3/27, Krunal Pandya 2/38)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 149/5 in 15.1 overs (Virat Kohli 49; Prince Yadav 3/32)
Conclusion
While Virat Kohli’s near half-century stole the spotlight, it was a complete team performance that powered RCB to victory. The win further strengthens Bengaluru’s position in the IPL 2026 standings, while LSG will need to regroup after another inconsistent outing.