While Royal Challengers returned to winning ways on Sunday night after besting Mumbai Indians in a high-scoring clash at the Wankhede Stadium, the defending champions will be a little concerned after their star batter Virat Kohli didn’t take the field during the second half of the fixture. Kohli, who scored a half-century in RCB’s total of 240, stayed inside the team dressing room during the MI chase.
Kohli is said to be dealing with an ankle issue, and RCB brought in Jacob Bethell as a substitute fielder as they successfully defended the total for their third win of the IPL 2026.
RCB all-rounder Krunal Pandya later shared an update, allaying fears over Kohli’s fitness concerns.
“I’ve not spoken to the physio yet, but I think he (Kohli) will be
fine. So, I guess nothing to worry,” Pandya told reporters after the match.
Earlier, RCB skipper Rajat Patidar had also reassured during the post-match presentation that Kohli is doing fine.
“I don’t know yet, but I feel that he’s okay right now,” he said.
Opening the innings in the highly anticipated IPL showdown with Mumbai Indians, Kohli scored a measured half-century – hitting 50 off 38 before falling to Hardik Pandya in the 15th over. He struck five fours and a six and appeared frustrated following his dismissal, throwing away his helmet near the dugout while returning to the dressing room.
RCB went on to post a mammoth 240/4, a total which proved beyond MI’s reach as the hosts finished at 222/5.
Kohli has played in RCB’s all four matches so far and is their second-highest run-getter with 179 at a strike-rate of 162.73.
RCB’s 18-run win was their third of the ongoing season as they bounced back after losing to Rajasthan Royals in their last match. They will next face Lucknow Super Giants at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday.
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