Virat Kohli Goes To Bowl, Immediately Retracts As Rajat Patidar Pays No Heed – Virat Kohli’s Hilarious Bowling Gesture Steals Show as RCB Reaches IPL 2026 Final
A Commanding Performance at Dharamsala
The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium witnessed a spectacle as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) dismantled the Gujarat Titans in a crushing 92-run victory during Qualifier 1 of the IPL 2026. This comprehensive performance has propelled RCB straight into the final, cementing their status as the team to beat this season.
While the victory was a masterclass in professional cricket, the match provided more than just clinical batting and bowling; it offered fans a glimpse of the camaraderie and high spirits within the RCB camp, centered around a viral moment involving former captain Virat Kohli.
Rajat Patidar and the Batting Onslaught
Batting first, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru set the tone early. Led by the tactical brilliance and explosive power of Rajat Patidar, RCB posted a daunting total of 254/5. Patidar was in sublime touch, carving out an unbeaten 93 runs off just 39 deliveries. His innings was a display of fearless strokeplay, putting the Gujarat Titans’ bowling unit under immense pressure from the very first ball.
Virat Kohli also played his part in the destruction, contributing a brisk 43 off 25 balls at a strike rate of 172.00. In doing so, he achieved a historic personal milestone: becoming the first player in IPL history to surpass the 600-run mark in four consecutive seasons. This achievement underscores his incredible consistency and dedication to the game.
The Viral Bowling Gesture
Amidst the intensity of the Qualifier, Virat Kohli provided a moment of pure entertainment. As Jacob Duffy prepared to start the first over for RCB, Kohli jokingly snatched the ball, marked his run-up, and began setting the field as if he were the designated bowler. The stadium erupted in cheers as the crowd, often heard chanting ‘Kohli ko bowling do,’ witnessed their hero mimic his delivery stride.
The moment was short-lived, however, as Kohli eventually shared a laugh with the on-field umpire and captain Rajat Patidar before returning the ball. Although the fans were left yearning for an actual over from the legendary batter, the gesture served as a delightful break in the tension. It is worth noting that Kohli has not bowled an official delivery in the IPL since 2016, having taken four wickets across 251 deliveries throughout his tournament career. Despite the scarcity of his bowling, the request from the fans remains a staple of every RCB fixture.
Gujarat Titans Struggle to Respond
Chasing an imposing 255 for victory, the Gujarat Titans crumbled under the pressure of the required run rate. Their start was nothing short of disastrous, losing five wickets within the powerplay. Sai Sudharsan was dismissed in the unfortunate ‘hit-wicket’ fashion, and captain Shubman Gill failed to anchor the chase. While Rahul Tewatia offered some resistance, the target was simply too far out of reach. The Titans were eventually bowled out for 162 in 19.3 overs.
This lopsided victory ensures that RCB heads into the final with immense momentum. For the Gujarat Titans, the campaign continues in Qualifier 2, where they will face the winner of the Eliminator for a second chance at the trophy.
Looking Ahead
As the IPL 2026 season reaches its crescendo, RCB looks every bit the championship contender. With the batting form of Patidar and Kohli, combined with a bowling attack that has consistently performed under pressure, the franchise is well-positioned to chase the ultimate glory. The blend of professional intensity on the field and light-hearted moments like Kohli’s phantom over suggests a team that is not only performing at its peak but also enjoying the journey together.
The fans will undoubtedly be waiting to see if Kohli takes the ball in the final, though for now, his role as a key anchor in the batting lineup remains the priority for a team hungry for their next title.
