Credit: IPL
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) veteran opener Virat Kohli looked elated following his team’s victory against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 game played at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on May 27. Chasing the massive score of 228, Challengers witnessed the belligerent side of Jitesh Sharma, who came heavily on bowlers to help his side register the biggest target in their 18-year league history. Jitesh’s unbeaten 85 off 33 helped Bengaluru chase down the total in just 18.4 overs. The wicket-keeper batter’s innings also got him the Player of the Match (POTM) award.
After Jitesh concluded the game in style, RCB players jumped in joy as their diligence in the league round finally concluded their campaign in second place on the points tally. Kohli, who made a vital contribution in the triumph, was also seen throwing his arms in elation.
Virat Kohli’s contribution to magnificent run chase
Chasing the humongous total, RCB witnessed Kohli’s courageous side again. Along with his opening ally Phil Salt, he built a 61-run stand off just 34 balls. After Salt’s departure, when Bengaluru lost their captain Rajat Patidar and Liam Livinsgone in quick succession, Kohli refused to relent and kept the scoreboard running.
Facing 30 balls, he smashed 54 with 10 fours. It was his performance that emboldened Mayank Agaarwal and Jitesh Sharma to display their courageous sides with their bats. The 36-year-old will now be expected to be at his best against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 to be played on May 29. PBKS have qualified for the playoffs for the first time after 11 years. In the league round, both RCB and Punjab played two games against each other with both winning on one occasion each.
