Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru kicked off their IPL 2026 campaign in style, registering a commanding six-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Chasing a competitive target of 202 in the tournament opener, RCB made the task look far simpler than expected, sealing the win in just 15.4 overs and sending a strong message to the rest of the league.
At the centre of this emphatic win was Virat Kohli, who once again delivered when it mattered most. The former RCB captain played an unbeaten knock of 69 off 38 balls, blending elegance with authority. His innings, laced with five boundaries and five towering sixes, reflected not just form but also control under pressure—something Kohli has consistently mastered over the years.
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One moment, however, stood above the rest. In the seventh over, facing Eshan Malinga, Kohli produced a shot that instantly became the highlight of the match. A perfectly timed lofted straight drive sailed into the stands, showcasing his impeccable balance and textbook technique. It wasn’t just a six—it was a reminder of why Kohli remains one of the finest batters in modern cricket.
That straight drive? Straight-up cinema 🎬😮💨
Virat Kohli just paints the ground with perfection 👑✨
Screen badi, awaazein badi. Apne smart TV ke JioHotstar app pe dekhiye Champions waali commentary LIVE💥#TATAIPL 2026 | #RCBvSRH | LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/LWOEeT2vNG pic.twitter.com/nZAastmRuM
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 28, 2026
The brilliance didn’t stop there. Devdutt Padikkal provided the perfect support at the other end, complementing Kohli with an equally aggressive approach. The duo stitched together a match-defining 101-run partnership for the second wicket in just 45 deliveries, effectively taking the game away from Hyderabad. Padikkal’s fluent strokeplay, combined with Kohli’s calculated aggression, dismantled the opposition’s bowling attack.
Former England captain Kevin Pietersen was full of praise for Kohli’s standout six during commentary. He highlighted the batter’s positioning, timing, and ability to create space—qualities that, according to Pietersen, simply cannot be replicated or taught.
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RCB eventually cruised to 203/4, wrapping up a near-perfect chase and beginning their title defence on a dominant note. With momentum firmly on their side, Bengaluru will now turn their attention to their upcoming clash against Chennai Super Kings, aiming to build on this impressive start and continue their winning run in IPL 2026.
