IPL 2026 final: Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 75 helps RCB beat Gujarat Titans to secure back-to-back titles

As the stadium was filled with jerseys bearing Kohli’s name and the iconic number 18, the former India captain took to the biggest stage once again.

He may turn 38 by the end of this year but a player renowned for his ability to master the chase shows he has plenty left in the tank as he chalked up his fastest IPL half-century.

Kohli and fellow opener Venkatesh Iyer, who hit 32 off 16 balls, gave RCB a perfect start with a whirlwind 62-run opening stand.

Mohammed Siraj made the breakthrough by dismissing Iyer before Kagiso Rabada dismissed Devdutt Padikkal to give Gujarat an opening.

Rashid Khan then gained momentum in the Titans’ favor, claiming two wickets in an over as skipper Rajat Patidar fell for 15 and Krunal Pandya followed soon after.

But Kohli, who retired from the T20 national teams after the 2024 World Cup, remained stoic as he shares a landmark 41-run partnership with Tim David to continue the chase.

David made 24 before departing, which left Kohli along with Jitesh Sharma to take RCB home.

Kohli even provided the iconic ending that the majority of those in the stadium craved as he bowled Arshad Khan for six minutes to seal the victory.

After winning the player of the match award, Kohli said, “That’s what the sport demands today. There are super young players who are constantly pushing you and asking you to change your game and raise the bar.”

“It’s exciting because it gives you something to improve on, something to work on. And I take a lot of pride in getting better and trying to find areas where I can improve.”