Kohli: ‘It was a clinical performance’ as RCB secures back-to-back IPL titles
A Historic Repeat for Royal Challengers Bengaluru
The 2026 Indian Premier League season concluded with a familiar sight: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lifting the trophy. By overcoming the Gujarat Titans in a high-stakes final, RCB not only defended their title but cemented their status as the most formidable outfit in the competition. Following the conclusion of the match, the sentiments echoing through the dressing room were those of immense pride and collective belief.
Virat Kohli on the Path to Victory
Reflecting on the campaign, Virat Kohli provided a deep insight into the mindset of the squad. Kohli: ‘It was a clinical performance’ was the headline takeaway from his post-match assessment. He emphasized that the group felt a different kind of confidence compared to previous years. According to Kohli, the team recognized their inherent ability early on, which allowed them to navigate the league stage with authority, ultimately finishing at the top of the table.
‘We knew what kind of ability we have in the group,’ Kohli remarked. ‘If we stick to our cricket and execute our plans, we are the best team in the competition. The skill sets we possess, combined with the maturity and composure of the guys, really showed through tonight.’
Kohli also discussed the tactical turning point of their season. After a brief stumble following the mid-season break, a crucial win against the Mumbai Indians restored the team’s momentum. This was followed by a comprehensive victory over the Kolkata Knight Riders, setting the stage for their championship run. For Kohli, the joy of this victory stems from the reliance he can place on his teammates. He noted that he no longer needs to be the primary engine of every win, as the roster is filled with players capable of turning the tide.
A Balanced Roster and Tactical Excellence
The success of the 2026 campaign was built on the foundation of a balanced squad. Kohli was quick to praise his bowling attack, highlighting the contributions of world-class talents like Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and the reliable spin-bowling expertise of Krunal Pandya. He also lauded Rasik Dar for his brilliant season, noting that the depth of the squad was the key differentiator.
Krunal Pandya: The Value of Hard-Earned Success
Krunal Pandya, a veteran of the league, echoed the sentiments of his captain, emphasizing that every IPL trophy represents a unique challenge. ‘There’s no doubt about it, every IPL trophy is special,’ Pandya stated. ‘It’s like having kids, you can’t pick one. Everything is so hard-earned. I am grateful that in 11 years, to have five trophies is something I cherish deeply.’
Pandya was quick to shift the credit toward the support staff, citing the strategic brilliance of Mo Babat, Andy Flower, Dinesh Karthik, and Malolan Rangarajan. He argued that the battle was essentially won during the auction phase, where the team’s balance was meticulously constructed. The players then took the responsibility to deliver on the field.
A Tribute to the Fans
The victory serves as a monumental achievement for the RCB fanbase, who have waited years for such success. Pandya dedicated the back-to-back titles to the supporters who have followed the team across the country. ‘All this wait of 18 years and then winning back-to-back trophies, this is for the RCB fans. Wherever we have gone, they have supported us,’ he added. As the dust settles on the 2026 season, it is clear that RCB has entered a new era of excellence, characterized by clinical execution, mutual trust, and a winning culture that looks set to continue for years to come.
