Cricket – Virat Kohli Guides Bengaluru to Consecutive IPL Championship Triumph
Cricket – Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured their second consecutive Indian Premier League title after defeating Gujarat Titans by five wickets in the IPL 2026 final. The victory was powered by an outstanding unbeaten innings from Virat Kohli, whose composed approach during the chase once again highlighted his ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stage.
Playing at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Bengaluru successfully chased down a target of 156 runs. Kohli remained unbeaten on 75 from just 42 deliveries, striking nine boundaries and three sixes. His innings ensured that RCB defended the championship they had won at the same venue a year earlier.
De Villiers Praises Kohli’s Chase Management
Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru star AB de Villiers praised Kohli’s contribution and described his innings as the defining factor in the title clash. According to de Villiers, Kohli’s experience and ability to control the pace of a run chase make him one of the most dependable batters in world cricket.
He explained that removing a player of Kohli’s caliber from a batting lineup significantly changes the balance of a chase. De Villiers noted that while Gujarat Titans bowlers, including Rashid Khan, created pressure during different phases of the innings, Kohli’s calm presence ensured Bengaluru remained in control.
The South African great also pointed out that Gujarat’s bowlers allowed Kohli to settle early by offering deliveries in areas where he is particularly strong. Once the opener found rhythm, he gradually took charge of the innings and steered the chase with confidence until the winning runs were scored.
Tactical Discipline Proves Decisive
The final was expected to be a closely contested encounter, but Bengaluru’s disciplined batting approach made the target appear less challenging than anticipated. Kohli carefully balanced risk and reward throughout the innings, rotating strike effectively while punishing loose deliveries.
His partnership-building ability prevented Gujarat Titans from gaining momentum despite several impressive bowling spells. As the innings progressed, Bengaluru steadily moved closer to the target without facing any major setbacks, ultimately crossing the finish line with five wickets in hand.
Back-to-Back Titles Reflect Team Growth
De Villiers also reflected on Bengaluru’s journey to consecutive championships, highlighting the difference between their 2025 and 2026 title victories. He said the team appeared more settled and self-assured this season, having already experienced success at the highest level.
According to him, there was a noticeable sense of confidence within the squad before the final began. The players understood the demands of a championship match and approached the occasion with clarity and composure. That confidence, combined with experience, played a major role in helping the franchise achieve another memorable triumph.
The former RCB batter described the back-to-back championships as a remarkable accomplishment and expressed pride in the team’s continued success. Winning consecutive IPL titles has further strengthened Bengaluru’s position among the league’s leading franchises.
Kohli Set for International Assignment
Following his successful IPL campaign, Kohli is expected to shift focus to international cricket. He is scheduled to represent India in the upcoming three-match One-Day International series against Afghanistan, which begins on June 13 in Dharamshala.
With another impressive IPL season behind him, Kohli will enter the series carrying strong form and confidence. His performance in the final once again demonstrated why he remains one of the most influential players in the modern game and a key figure for both franchise and country.