Virat Kohli once again showed why he remains one of the most respected figures in the game, applauding Sarfaraz Khan for his fearless knock during the IPL 2026 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Chennai Super Kings on April 5. Despite being on opposing sides, Kohli’s gesture stood out as Sarfaraz walked back after a stunning 25-ball half-century that briefly reignited CSK’s hopes in a daunting 251-run chase.

With Chennai reeling at 30/3 inside the first three overs, Sarfaraz counterattacked with intent, taking the pressure off the middle order. His aggressive stroke play injected life into the contest before his innings was eventually cut short. Kohli’s applause and thumbs-up from the field captured the spirit of the game, acknowledging a performance that deserved recognition.

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Earlier, RCB’s imposing total was built on solid partnerships. Devdutt Padikkal played a crucial role, stitching together a 56-run stand with Phil Salt and a rapid 58-run partnership with Rajat Patidar. These contributions proved vital on a slightly sluggish Chinnaswamy surface after CSK opted to bowl first.

पवेलियन लौटते समय कोहली ने सरफराज को सीटी बजाकर उनकी बल्लेबाजी की सराहना की और ताली बजाई। कोहली का यह प्यारा सा भाव था। ❤️🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/N7v5AVPvRz

— ममता ट्राबल (@Mamtasulaniya) April 5, 2026

Phil Salt took control early, especially after Kohli’s dismissal for 28—having survived an early drop by Shivam Dube. Salt’s calculated aggression ensured RCB finished the Powerplay strongly at 51/1, setting the platform for a big total. However, his dismissal soon after shifted the momentum slightly.

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In the chase, Krunal Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar delivered timely breakthroughs, ensuring CSK never fully recovered. While Sarfaraz’s knock added excitement, RCB ultimately maintained control to secure a commanding win.