Virat Kohli dropped some words of wisdom during the post-match presentation after leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a crucial win over Kolkata Knight Riders. The RCB batter returned to top form with an unbeaten 105, steering his side comfortably through a 193-run chase and helping them climb to the top of the points table.
The knock also marked a strong response from Kohli after back-to-back ducks in his previous two outings. His reaction after getting off the mark showed how much the innings meant, but once settled, the former RCB captain looked completely in control and paced the chase with trademark composure. Kohli remained unbeaten till the end, ensuring there were no late hiccups as RCB sealed two important points in the business end of the season.
It was also Kohli’s first IPL century since the 2024 campaign. Speaking to Ian Bishop after being named Player of the Match, Kohli reflected on handling pressure situations and maintaining consistency across so many years at the highest level.
“The fact that I didn’t get many runs in the last two games was, it eats me up in a way that I know I can play well and I’m hitting the ball well,” Kohli told the broadcaster after he was adjudged the Player of the Match.
“But then, when you don’t carry on and you know (that) you haven’t created the impact for the team, it bothers you because that’s basically been the goal all these years… trying to improve so that you can be the best version for your team when you play out there and make an impact,” he added.
Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen, a big admirer of Kohli, was in awe of his post-match chat and urged everyone to enjoy his batting while it lasts.
“Just seen Virat’s interview. How wonderful to hear him talk about how much he loves batting. He just LOVES it! He also mentioned, it won’t be forever……so, I urge all of you, enjoy it whilst it lasts!!!!!!!!!” Pietersen wrote.
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Kohli stayed unbeaten on a fluent 105 off 60 balls, laced with 11 boundaries and three sixes, as he anchored RCB through a tricky chase against KKR. Set a target of 193, RCB held their nerve to reach 194/4 in 19.1 overs, sealing the win with six deliveries remaining after KKR had earlier posted 192/4. Kohli’s composed knock ensured the chase never slipped out of control as he guided his side to a vital victory.
“Pressure is a privilege”
Meanwhile, he acknowledged that the back-to-back ducks had brought a bit of nervousness, but said difficult phases often push players to perform better and produce meaningful performances.
“The celebration (after completing the century) was not a big one because we know the importance of the points. It is a conscious effort to contribute more to the team,” Kohli said.
“There is a reason people say pressure is a privilege — it keeps you humble. Good pressure always helps you improve your game. A couple of games that do not go your way, you feel a bit of nervousness and that helps you. It takes a lot of effort, but it helps your game go up. Those failures are so important because that puts you in a place to get back (to where you have been and do what has got you there),” he added.