New Delhi [India]: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli lauded his team’s adaptability and strong communication after their crucial six-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals (DC) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday.
RCB’s win — their seventh of the season — propelled them to the top of the points table, strengthening their push towards the playoffs.
Kohli on the ‘Challenging Wicket’
Reflecting on the match conditions, Kohli emphasized the significance of the win, especially given the tricky surface.
“It was a top win, especially looking at the surface. This wicket played very differently compared to other games,” said Kohli at the post-match presentation.
He revealed that during chases, he constantly communicates with the dugout to stay aligned with the team’s strategy.
“Whenever there is a chase on, I keep checking with the dugout if we are on course, what is my role, etc.”
Crucial Partnership with Krunal Pandya
The cornerstone of RCB’s chase was a 119-run partnership between Virat Kohli and Krunal Pandya.
Also SEE : IPL 2025: RCB Storm To Top Of The Table After Krunal Pandya, Kohli Heroics Against DC
- Kohli contributed 51 runs off 47 balls with four boundaries.
- Krunal Pandya remained unbeaten on 73 off 47 balls, smashing five fours and four sixes.
Praising Pandya’s impactful performance, Kohli said,
“Krunal… today was his day. We were waiting for him to come into the tournament with the bat.”
Kohli also detailed his approach to the innings:
“I try and ensure I don’t stop my singles and doubles and combine with the occasional boundary.”
Adaptability and Team Communication Key to Success
Kohli emphasized the importance of adapting to the conditions:
“This year, you can’t just come out and hit; you have to assess, understand the conditions and then plan accordingly.”
Highlighting RCB’s strong internal communication, he credited it as a major factor behind their success so far:
“We have communicated beautifully as a team in the batting, and that’s the reason we have 7 wins out of 10.”
Praise for Team Strength and Depth
Kohli acknowledged the overall strength of the squad:
- He praised the explosive power hitters Romario Shepherd and Tim David for their finishing abilities.
- Applauded the world-class bowling duo Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, with Bhuvneshwar currently holding the Purple Cap for most wickets.
- Recognized Krunal Pandya’s contributions with the ball as well.
- Gave a special mention to Suyash, calling him a “dark horse” for his economical bowling despite a lack of wickets.
“It’s looking good for us. That firepower at the back end definitely helps,” he concluded.
Match Recap:
- Delhi Capitals: 162/8 in 20 overs (KL Rahul 41, Tristan Stubbs 34; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3/33)
- Royal Challengers Bengaluru: 165/4 in 18.3 overs (Krunal Pandya 73*, Virat Kohli 51; Axar Patel 2/19)