On Thursday, Virat Kohli was once again in sublime form, hammering 70 runs off just 42 balls with finesse and authority.
Kohli Shines as RCB Edge Past RR to Continue Winning Streak
Royal Challengers Bengaluru continued their strong run in IPL 2025 with an 11-run win over Rajasthan Royals on Thursday in Bengaluru. The victory also highlighted Virat Kohli’s red-hot form, as he kept the pressure on Orange Cap leader Sai Sudharsan, climbing to second place with 392 runs in nine matches.
Kohli was at his fluent best once again, smashing 70 off just 42 balls, including eight boundaries and two sixes. His aggressive yet calculated approach helped RCB post a commanding total of 205/5 in their 20 overs, playing a pivotal role in the team’s latest triumph.
Aaron Finch hails Virat Kohli
Former RCB and Australia captain Aaron Finch has praised Virat Kohli’s leadership and batting consistency, calling his captaincy “underrated” and a vital factor in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s success. Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Finch addressed the common perception that Kohli’s captaincy lacks credit, and firmly stated that his sheer consistency at the top of the order has been a game-changer for RCB over the years.
“Yes, I mean, if you are offered 650 or 700 runs at the start of the year from one of your top-three batters—regardless of whether the strike rate is 150 or 200—you’d take that every single day,” said Finch. “That gives your team the platform to build around.”
Finch explained that Kohli’s ability to anchor an innings allows the team to play more high-risk, aggressive batters in the middle order. He pointed out that players like Glenn Maxwell, Liam Livingstone, and Rajat Patidar have been given the license to go hard, knowing that Kohli’s presence brings balance and stability. “Once Virat gets in, very rarely does he get out at 30. He goes deep and builds the innings, which is crucial,” Finch added.