Ahmedabad: Virat Kohli once again proved why he is regarded as one of the finest chasers in world cricket, delivering a match-winning knock to guide Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second consecutive Indian Premier League title in 2026. Facing Gujarat Titans in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Kohli’s unbeaten 75 off 42 balls ensured a comfortable five-wicket victory with two overs to spare.
Kohli anchors tense chase with masterclass
Chasing a modest target of 156, RCB’s innings did not begin on a stable note. Early wickets put pressure on the batting unit, leaving the middle order with the responsibility to stabilise the chase. However, Kohli remained composed throughout the innings, carefully pacing his knock while ensuring the required run rate never spiralled out of control.
His innings was a blend of calculated aggression and smart strike rotation. Initially cautious, Kohli capitalised on loose deliveries and gradually built momentum. Once settled, he shifted gears seamlessly, dispatching the bowlers to all parts of the ground and keeping the scoreboard ticking.
The veteran batter’s ability to read the game situation stood out. Even as wickets fell at the other end, Kohli maintained his focus, guiding the chase with precision and maturity. His unbeaten knock ultimately ensured RCB crossed the finish line comfortably, underlining his reputation as a dependable finisher.
GT’s bowling errors prove costly
According to AB de Villiers, Gujarat Titans’ bowling approach significantly contributed to their downfall. The former South African captain highlighted how the bowlers repeatedly strayed onto Kohli’s pads during the early phase of his innings.
De Villiers pointed out that allowing a player of Kohli’s calibre to settle with such deliveries was a major tactical error. “If you give one of the best players of all time a start like that, he’s always going to punish you,” he remarked, emphasising how GT’s lack of discipline enabled Kohli to dominate once he found his rhythm.
The bowling unit, led by skipper Shubman Gill, struggled to adjust their line and length despite Kohli’s growing dominance. Instead of testing him with varied strategies, they continued to bowl in his scoring zones, allowing him to dictate terms.
This inability to adapt ultimately cost Gujarat Titans dearly, as RCB capitalised on the mistakes and maintained control of the chase throughout.
De Villiers lauds Kohli and RCB’s composure
De Villiers, who shared a successful partnership with Kohli during their time at RCB, praised not only the Indian star’s innings but also the team’s overall composure. He noted a visible sense of calm and confidence within the squad, particularly when compared to their previous title-winning campaign.
“This year, there was quiet confidence. They’ve been here before and knew exactly what needed to be done,” he observed, adding that the experience of winning previously played a crucial role in handling pressure situations.
The victory marked a significant achievement for RCB, as they successfully defended their title—an accomplishment that reflects the team’s consistency and strong leadership core.
What lies ahead for Kohli
Following the IPL triumph, Kohli is set to return to international action as India national cricket team prepares to face Afghanistan national cricket team in a three-match One Day International series starting June 13 in Dharamshala.
The IPL final performance once again showcased Kohli’s adaptability and hunger for success, traits that continue to make him a key figure in Indian cricket across formats.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s match-winning innings in the IPL 2026 final was a testament to his experience, temperament, and tactical awareness. While Gujarat Titans faltered with their execution, Kohli capitalised on every opportunity, ensuring RCB’s dominance in the tournament continued. With back-to-back titles now secured, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have firmly established themselves as a powerhouse in the league.