Virat Kohli Punishes RCB Despite Victory, Flags Middle-Order Collapse

Virat Kohli praised RCB’s win but raised concerns over a mid-innings collapse despite a comfortable chase.

Virat Kohli reflected on Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s performance with a mix of satisfaction and caution after their latest victory in the Indian Premier League 2026 season.

Having been associated with RCB since the inaugural IPL season in 2008, Kohli has witnessed the franchise’s entire journey, from struggling at the bottom of the table to finishing as runners-up and eventually lifting their maiden title. This year marks a new chapter, with RCB entering the tournament as defending champions for the first time, carrying heightened expectations.

The Bengaluru-based side started their campaign strongly with a commanding win over Sunrisers Hyderabad but briefly lost momentum against Rajasthan Royals. They have since bounced back well, and on Wednesday, registered their fourth win of the season to climb to the top of the points table.

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Chasing a target of 147, RCB appeared to be in complete control and sealed the contest in just 15.1 overs with five wickets in hand. However, the chase was not without its hiccups. From a dominant position of 66/1, the team slipped to 122/5, losing four wickets in quick succession.

Kohli, who led the scoring with a steady 49 off 34 deliveries, admitted he would have preferred a more clinical finish. “From a personal perspective and also from a batting group perspective, I think I would have liked to see us finish with two or three down. I don’t like seeing collapses, but bloody well done,” he said in a video shared by the franchise.

The former captain also lauded all-rounder Romario Shepherd for his unbeaten 14 off eight balls that helped close out the chase. In a lighter moment, Kohli added that Krunal Pandya is the only player yet to spend time in the middle with the bat this season.

“Good to see Sheppy finally get some time at the back and finish the game off. KP is the only one left now, so everyone gets some game time and then we’ll probably see a celebration next time. Well done, very professional, we’ll keep moving ahead,” he added.