Kohli's 75 runs help RCB defend IPL title

The 2026 Indian Premier League concluded with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru successfully defending their title, defeating the Gujarat Titans by five wickets in the final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium on May 31. The victory, anchored by a record-breaking innings from Virat Kohli, secured RCB's second consecutive championship, making them only the third franchise in IPL history to achieve the feat.

Chasing a target of 156, Kohli delivered a match-winning performance, scoring an unbeaten 75 from 42 deliveries. His innings included the fastest half-century of his IPL career, reached in just 25 balls, and he sealed the victory with a six in the 18th over. The Titans, batting first, were restricted to 155, with Washington Sundar top-scoring with an unbeaten 50. For RCB, Rasikh Salam Dar took three wickets.

The season was statistically one of Kohli's best, as he amassed 675 runs. In reflection, he noted the significance of winning back-to-back titles, a goal emphasized by the franchise after their first triumph. His longevity and sustained performance have drawn significant commentary, with former international players suggesting his careful management could extend his career.