Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) opener Virat Kohli made a strong return to form in the IPL 2026 clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium on May 13.
The star batter had a difficult time in his previous two matches. He was dismissed for ducks against Lucknow Super Giants and Mumbai Indians. However, Kohli quickly put those disappointments behind him with a brilliant performance against KKR.
His return to the scoresheet came in a simple but memorable moment. Facing pacer Saurabh Dubey, Kohli received a good-length ball that moved into him. He gently worked the delivery towards square leg and ran for a quick single.
The moment brought huge excitement among the crowd in Raipur. Fans loudly celebrated as Kohli finally opened his account. The RCB batter also responded with an energetic celebration, showing his emotions after ending his short lean run.
Kohli Leads RCB To Comfortable Victory
RCB played with attacking intent during the run chase. The team looked positive from the beginning and kept the pressure on KKR bowlers throughout the innings.
Kohli became the main attraction of the night. He played a superb unbeaten knock of 105 runs from 60 balls and registered his ninth IPL century. His innings was filled with quality stroke play. He struck several boundaries through elegant drives, punches and glances. He also added three sixes with some excellent shots around the ground.
Devdutt Padikkal also played an important role in the chase. He scored 39 runs from 27 deliveries and supported Kohli well.
Kohli received the Player of the Match award for his outstanding performance. His innings entertained the fans in Raipur and helped RCB complete the chase comfortably.
For KKR, the situation has now become difficult. With only three matches remaining, another defeat could seriously damage their playoff hopes.
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