Virat Kohli has once again become the center of attention in IPL 2026 after suffering two consecutive golden ducks, but Royal Challengers Bengaluru all-rounder Krunal Pandya delivered a powerful message backing the superstar batter to bounce back strongly. Despite Kohli’s rare failures with the bat, RCB continue to believe that the former captain remains their biggest match-winner during the crucial stage of the tournament.
The Virat Kohli discussion intensified after RCB secured a dramatic last-ball victory against Mumbai Indians in a high-pressure IPL 2026 clash. While the team celebrated a crucial win, fans remained shocked by Kohli’s second successive first-ball dismissal of the season.
Virat Kohli Backed Strongly By Krunal Pandya
Krunal Pandya made it clear that the RCB dressing room has absolutely no concerns regarding Virat Kohli’s recent dip in form. According to the experienced all-rounder, Kohli’s hunger, mentality, and champion mindset make him one of the most dangerous players in world cricket even after a few poor innings.
Krunal admitted that whenever Virat Kohli fails in consecutive games, it actually increases excitement within the squad because everyone expects the batting icon to respond with a massive performance. His comments reflected the confidence the franchise continues to have in Kohli’s ability to dominate IPL 2026.
The Virat Kohli factor remains crucial for RCB as the tournament enters its decisive phase. With playoffs approaching rapidly, the franchise hopes the batting legend can rediscover his best form immediately.
Virat Kohli IPL 2026 Numbers Still Remain Impressive
Although Kohli has struggled in the last few matches, his overall IPL 2026 statistics remain extremely impressive. The RCB star has scored 379 runs in 11 innings at an average above 42 while maintaining a strike rate exceeding 163.
Virat Kohli has also registered three half-centuries this season and has consistently provided explosive starts at the top of the order. However, fans and experts feel his ultra-aggressive batting approach has occasionally prevented him from converting starts into match-defining centuries or bigger innings.
Despite the recent failures, Virat Kohli still remains among the most dangerous batters in IPL 2026. His experience in handling pressure situations continues to make him invaluable for RCB’s title hopes.
Krunal Pandya Plays Match-Winning Knock For RCB
While Virat Kohli endured another disappointing outing, Krunal Pandya stepped up brilliantly for RCB during a tense run chase against Mumbai Indians. Chasing 167 on a difficult Raipur surface, Krunal produced a stunning innings of 73 runs from just 46 deliveries.
The all-rounder attacked the bowlers confidently despite uneven bounce and difficult batting conditions. His innings included four boundaries and five sixes, helping RCB recover after early wickets placed the team under severe pressure.
Krunal later described the innings as one of the most special knocks of his IPL career because of the challenging conditions and the importance of the match. The Virat Kohli presence at the other end, according to Krunal, also helped him remain calm and confident during critical moments.
How Virat Kohli’s Aura Helps RCB Players
Krunal Pandya also highlighted the impact Virat Kohli has on teammates beyond just scoring runs. According to him, Kohli’s energy, intensity, and aura create confidence within the batting unit during pressure situations.
He recalled a similar partnership against Delhi Capitals in the previous season when both players rescued RCB from a difficult situation. Krunal explained that batting alongside Virat Kohli often makes chasing targets feel easier because of the confidence Kohli brings to the middle.
The Virat Kohli influence inside the RCB dressing room continues to remain massive even during phases where runs are not flowing consistently from his bat.
RCB Survive Mumbai Indians Scare In Thriller
The IPL 2026 clash between RCB and Mumbai Indians turned into a dramatic thriller filled with momentum swings. After choosing to bowl first, RCB reduced Mumbai Indians to 28/3 during the powerplay through brilliant bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
However, Tilak Varma and Naman Dhir rebuilt the innings with a crucial partnership that guided MI to 166/7 in 20 overs. Bhuvneshwar emerged as RCB’s standout bowler with four wickets, while Josh Hazlewood and Romario Shepherd also contributed valuable overs.
During the chase, Virat Kohli departed for a golden duck again, leaving RCB under pressure at 39/3. Krunal Pandya then combined with Jacob Bethell and Jitesh Sharma to stabilize the innings before another late collapse increased tension dramatically.
Virat Kohli And RCB Stay Top Of IPL 2026 Table
Despite the batting struggles faced by Virat Kohli, RCB continue to dominate the IPL 2026 points table. The dramatic victory over Mumbai Indians pushed the team to seven wins from eleven matches, taking them to 14 points.
The franchise now looks firmly placed in the playoff race and remains one of the strongest contenders for a top-two finish. Kohli’s return to form could further strengthen RCB’s chances of winning the IPL trophy this season.
Fans continue to back Virat Kohli heavily because of his remarkable consistency across previous IPL seasons. Most supporters believe it is only a matter of time before the batting superstar produces another iconic innings.
Why Virat Kohli Remains RCB’s Biggest Hope
Even after two successive ducks, Virat Kohli continues to remain RCB’s emotional leader and biggest crowd-puller. His aggressive batting approach has transformed the team’s style this season, helping RCB become one of the most entertaining sides in IPL 2026.
Kohli’s ability to handle pressure, motivate teammates, and deliver in big matches has repeatedly proven decisive throughout his IPL career. With the tournament approaching its business end, RCB will expect their star batter to produce another memorable comeback.
The Virat Kohli storyline has always been filled with dramatic highs and occasional setbacks, but his ability to respond under pressure remains unmatched. Cricket fans now eagerly wait to see whether the IPL legend can silence critics with another explosive performance in the upcoming matches.
Written by 8JJ.com | May 12,2026
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