Virat Kohli and Krunal Pandya led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a six-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals on Sunday, propelling RCB to the top of the IPL table. Chasing 163, Kohli scored 51 and Pandya contributed an unbeaten 73 as they shared a crucial 119-run partnership after RCB had stumbled to 26 for 3, completing the chase in 18.3 overs.
The match-winning partnership came after RCB faced early setbacks, with Kohli and Pandya methodically rebuilding the innings. This victory extended RCB’s unbeaten run in away matches.
“It was a top win, especially looking at the surface. We saw a few games here and this wicket played out differently compared to those. Whenever there’s a chase on, I keep checking with the dugout, whether we’re on course,” said Kohli, who earned the orange cap.
Kohli emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum through singles and doubles during the chase. “I try and make sure my singles and doubles don’t stop so that the game doesn’t get stagnant. People are forgetting the importance of partnerships and that’s coming to the fore in this tournament to try and dominate the bowlers through partnerships and professionalism.”
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For Krunal Pandya, this innings marked his first fifty since 2016. The partnership between him and Kohli proved decisive in the match’s outcome.
“Krunal was outstanding, he can make an impact and it was just about time. We’ve communicated beautifully, Krunal kept telling me to stay while he took his chances,” Kohli acknowledged.
Tim David’s quick-fire 19 runs off five balls sealed the victory for RCB after Kohli’s dismissal.
Kohli praised the team’s finishing capabilities and bowling strength. “We have the extra power in Tim David, there’s Jitesh as well. That firepower at the back end of the innings definitely helps you. And now Romario as well. Hazlewood and Bhuvi are world-class bowlers, there’s a reason why Josh has the Purple Cap. Krunal was outstanding the way he varied his pace. Suyash has been the dark horse for us, even if he doesn’t have the wickets. Our spinners keep attacking in the middle overs.”
