Virat Kohli scored an unbeaten 105 runs in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s six-wicket win over the Kolkata Knight Riders. He hit 11 fours and 3 sixes in Raipur as RCB qualified for the playoffs. Chasing 193 runs, the defending champions reached the target in 19.1 overs to secure their eighth victory in the IPL 2026. Kohli was named the Player of the Match for his ninth century in the history of the tournament.

“The celebration was not a big one because we knew the importance of the points. It is a conscious effort to contribute more to the team. The fact that I did not score runs eats me up because I have been playing well. It bothers you because that has been the goal – to be the best version. Century or no century, the more important thing is to finish the game,” he said.

He opened up about feeling pressure after scoring ducks in the previous two matches.

“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 they put you in a place to get back to where you have been and do what has gotten you there,” he added.

Kohli also revealed what pleased him the most.

“Just my positions at the crease, not doing anything extravagant and backing my game. Picking length, hitting the gaps I can hit. Happy I was able to get back my game.”

The 37-year-old also expressed his feelings after breaking records in the contest.

“I just love batting, even after all this. That is my core feeling. What an honour to be competing at this level and against the very best still. Just give my heart and soul out there because it is going to finish one day. Want to make the most of it, and look forward to pressure situations, where I am feeling a bit of heat, and then I challenge myself to just go for it. Sport teaches you a lot as a person. You build your character when you perform under pressure. Even after all these years, it is the love for the game.

I just love hitting the ball in the middle of the bat. That joy is still there, and it is all God’s grace, and I am thankful,” he concluded.