RCB ascend to IPL summit as Kohli’s century shifts Orange Cap dynamics
Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 105 propels RCB to top of the points table and moves him to third in run-scorer standings
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have climbed to the summit of the Indian Premier League 2026 points table following a calculated six-wicket victory over defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders in Raipur. The win elevates RCB to 16 points from 12 matches, placing them firmly on the verge of a playoff berth and shifting the competitive landscape of the tournament.
Chasing a target of 193, RCB’s innings was anchored by Virat Kohli, who remained unbeaten on 105 off 60 deliveries. The performance not only secured the victory with five balls remaining but also propelled Kohli from 10th to 3rd place in the IPL 2026 Orange Cap standings, surpassing Abhishek Sharma and re-establishing him among the tournament’s leading run-scorers.
Kohli found a crucial ally in Devdutt Padikkal, with the pair adding 92 runs for the third wicket in 9.5 overs. This partnership effectively dismantled the Kolkata Knight Riders' bowling attack, utilising a left-right combination to apply sustained pressure. Padikkal was eventually dismissed by Kartik Tyagi when the score reached 129, but the foundation for victory had already been laid.
The innings marked Kohli’s ninth IPL century, extending his record for the most hundreds in the tournament’s history. During the knock, he also became the fastest batter in cricket history to reach 14,000 T20 runs, achieving the milestone in just 409 innings. These achievements underscore his continued dominance in the format despite the shifting fortunes of his team earlier in the season.
Following the match, Kohli addressed the media with a focus on his enduring commitment to the sport rather than the statistical milestones. He described batting as his core passion and emphasised the honour of competing against the world’s best. Kohli noted that he enjoys challenging himself in high-pressure situations, viewing the heat of competition as an opportunity to test his resolve rather than a source of intimidation.
The victory also highlights RCB’s ability to perform under pressure in run chases. Kohli’s unbeaten 105 came in a familiar scenario, where he maintained aggressive intent while anchoring the innings. His calm demeanor and strategic execution were instrumental in guiding RCB past the 193-run mark, reinforcing their status as serious contenders in the latter stages of the IPL 2026 season.
