A relieved Virat Kohli expressed joy and vindication as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) snapped their three-match losing streak at home, defeating Rajasthan Royals (RR) by 11 runs in a pulsating IPL 2025 clash at M Chinnaswamy Stadium.
The RCB stalwart, who top-scored with 70 off 42 balls, was delighted that the team’s batting strategy—focusing on one batter playing the anchor role while others go aggressive—finally bore fruit.
“Pretty happy,” said Kohli post-match. “We discussed a few things as a batting unit and applied ourselves well. We figured out a way to bat now. In the next few home games, we should be in a better position to get those extra 15–20 runs.”
🔥 Kohli’s Tactical Insights:
- Recognized the early pace and bounce challenge in Bengaluru.
- Emphasized on not forcing attacking shots early, which led to better strokeplay.
- Stressed the value of batting deep and smartly rotating strike, a move that helped RCB to 205/5.
Kohli also gave credit to RR for their spirited chase, calling the two points “crucial” in the race to the playoffs.
“They batted really well. But the bowlers, especially Hazlewood and Dayal, showed a lot of character in the death overs.”
He also took a moment to appreciate the RCB fans:
“This venue is the best place to play cricket in the IPL. The fans have backed us through thick and thin—it’s a special place with special memories.”
RCB’s Highlights:
- 💥 Kohli (70) and Padikkal (50) starred with the bat.
- 💣 Tim David and Jitesh Sharma chipped in with impactful cameos.
- 🎯 Josh Hazlewood (4/33) blew the game open in the 19th over.
- 💪 Yash Dayal held firm under pressure to close the final over.
RR’s Valiant Effort:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal (49 off 19) led an explosive start.
- Dhruv Jurel (47 off 34) fought hard till the end.
- But Hazlewood and Pandya’s wickets proved too timely to overcome.
RCB’s win sees them move to third in the points table with 12 points (6W, 3L). Meanwhile, RR are now in eighth, reeling from their fifth straight loss, with only two wins in nine matches.
With form, fans, and firepower back on their side, RCB will look to build momentum—and maybe even make Chinnaswamy their fortress again.