Virat Kohli delivered a masterclass in chasing, powering Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on Sunday, successfully defending their Indian Premier League title.
Chasing 156, Bengaluru reached the target in 18 overs, with Kohli remaining unbeaten on 75 off 42 balls, smashing nine fours and three sixes. His fifty came off just 39 balls, the fastest of his IPL career.
Put in to bat, Gujarat Titans managed only 155-8, losing openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan early. Washington Sundar's 50 not out provided some resistance, but RCB's disciplined bowling-led by Rasikh Dar's three wickets and two each from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood-kept them in check.
Bengaluru's chase was never in doubt, with Venkatesh Iyer's quick 32 off 16 balls setting the platform alongside Kohli.