Kohli knows how to pace a chase right through the innings and finish it off: de Villiers
Ahmedabad, June 1
Royal Challengers Bengaluru batting stalwart AB de Villiers hailed Virat Kohli's match‑winning knock of 75 not out in the IPL 2026 final, saying the talismanic batter 'knows how to pace a chase right through the innings and finish it off,' as the side clinched their second successive title with a five‑wicket win over Gujarat Titans.
At the Narendra Modi Stadium, Kohli smashed a majestic 42-ball 75 not out, laced with nine fours and three sixes, as RCB completed a chase of 156 to retain the title they won at the same venue in 2025.
"In a final, if you take him out of that chasing batting order, then everything looks a bit different. With Rashid Khan firing from one end, and some of the other GT bowlers also doing really well, he just brings that calmness.
"He knows how to pace a chase right through the innings and finish it off. And it's very fitting that he was there right at the end, scoring the winning runs. GT were a bit naughty in feeding him into his strengths.
"A lot of deliveries were on the legs in his first 20-30 runs. If you give one of the best players of all time a start like that, he's always going to punish you. Once he started flowing, it was just plain sailing, one-way traffic. To be there at the end and call those final moments was absolutely phenomenal," said de Villiers on JioHotstar.
Kohli will be next seen in action when India take on Afghanistan in a three-game ODI series starting on June 13 in Dharamshala. De Villiers also lauded RCB's composure and confidence in sealing back-to-back title wins. "It was a lot easier than last year, that's for sure. Last year was emotional, and we weren't sure what was going to happen.
"This year, when I saw Virat before the start of the game, there was quiet confidence. We've been here before, we know how it works and what the formula is. And what a remarkable achievement, back‑to‑back champions. I couldn't be prouder," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
AB is spot on about the calmness Kohli brings to a chase. In a final, with Rashid bowling absolute rippers, his temperament was unshakable. That's the difference between a great player and a legend. Glad to see him finish it off in style! 🏏
It's brilliant to see RCB build a dynasty. But let's not ignore GT's tactical error—feeding Kohli on his pads early on was a schoolboy mistake. Any experienced bowler should know better. Still, full credit to Virat for pouncing on those loose deliveries and never looking back.
As an RCB fan since 2008, this feels surreal! Two titles in a row at the same venue. The team has finally learned how to close out games. Kohli's knock was a masterclass—controlled aggression when needed, and sheer class at the end. Now bring on the Afghanistan series! 🏆🎉
De Villiers praising Kohli—there's no better endorsement. Those two have shared some iconic partnerships over the years. It's great to see AB still so involved with the team. But I have to say, GT's bowling attack is world-class, and they'll be disappointed they let it slip in the middle overs.
What I admire most is how Kohli paces his innings—he doesn't panic even if the required rate climbs. He trusts his ability and picks his moments. That 42-ball 75 under pressure in a final is vintage Virat. And having AB in the commentary box talking about it makes it even more special. 🇮🇳