Virat Kohli Adjusts Spectacles During RCB’s IPL Match
- Virat Kohli has returned to T20 cricket with a strong performance for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the opening match of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
- Kohli delivered an unbeaten 69 off 38 balls, featuring five fours and five sixes.
- The clinical chase was supported by several key performances.
Virat Kohli has returned to T20 cricket with a strong performance for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the opening match of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. On March 29, 2026, Kohli played a pivotal role in RCB’s six-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Kohli delivered an unbeaten 69 off 38 balls, featuring five fours and five sixes. His contribution helped RCB chase down a target of 202 in 15.4 overs, ensuring a dominant start to the tournament.
Match Performance and Team Contributions
The clinical chase was supported by several key performances. Impact substitute Devdutt Padikkal set the pace of the innings with a score of 61 off 26 balls, while Rajat Patidar contributed 31 runs to the total.
The match also featured lighthearted moments on the field. During the clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Kohli was seen sharing a playful gesture with Ishan Kishan.
Kohli’s Return to T20 Cricket
Following the win, Kohli addressed his return to the T20 format after a significant break. He emphasized his commitment to preparation and mental readiness for the competition.
Virat Kohli
Whenever I come back to play, it’s 120 percent. I’m not coming back underprepared, in fact, the extra rest helps me mentally freshen up.
Kohli further noted the importance of consistent performance over simply maintaining a position within the team, stating that players must keep performing and putting in work for the collective goal.
Personal Moments and Off-Field Highlights
The season opener was marked by a viral personal exchange between Kohli and his wife, Anushka Sharma. After the victory, Kohli blew a flying kiss toward the stands to Sharma, who was seated with RCB Women’s players, including captain Smriti Mandhana.
Outside of the 2026 season, Kohli’s presence in the IPL has continued to generate attention for his off-field personality. A social media post from June 14, 2025, highlighted the contrast between his glamorous off-field appearance, where he wears glasses, and his sharp focus during match time when he does not use them.
records from the 2025 season show that Kohli celebrated an emphatic victory against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by dancing in the dressing room.