RCB VS SRH: Virat Kohli Smashes Record 64th Half-Century On Return To Bengaluru In IPL 2026 Opener | VIDEO

RCB legend Virat Kohli continued where he left off on his return to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday. The Chase Master played the perfect anchor, smashing a 33-ball half-century to keep the defending champions in the hunt for victory. Kohli showcased his class, playing some exquisite shots to the delight of the fans.

Chasing 202 to win, Kohli saw Phil Salt depart early. He then joined hands with Devdutt Padikkal and put RCB on the front foot inside the powerplay. Making full use of the field restrictions, Kohli got going quickly, helping the defending champions to a sizeable 76 at the end of six overs.

With the required rate in control, Kohli toyed around the Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling, picking gaps. Following Padikkal, Rajat Patidar also played a blistering cameo to all but seal the result.

Kohli reached his half-century in 33 balls, his 64th in IPL cricket. Kohli has the most 50+ scores in the tournament history, extending his record. David Warner, who doesn't feature in the IPL anymore, has 61. Next best among active cricketers is Rohit Sharma's 47.

Kohli also went past 4000 runs batting second in the IPL, only the second player to do so. He eventually finished the chase with 18 runs off 4 deliveries, finishing unbeaten on 69 off 38 balls.