New Delhi: The Virat Kohli IPL 2026 Final performance will be remembered as one of the defining moments of the tournament, as the star batter guided Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second consecutive IPL title with a brilliant unbeaten 75 against Gujarat Titans.
Chasing a target of 156 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Kohli anchored the innings with composure and confidence, remaining unbeaten on 75 from 42 balls. He sealed the championship in style by smashing a six off Arshad Khan, sparking emotional celebrations among RCB players and fans.
Dream Come True for Kohli
Following the victory, Virat Kohli described the occasion as a dream come true. The former RCB captain revealed that he had often imagined being at the crease and hitting the winning runs when the franchise finally lifted the trophy.
The Virat Kohli IPL 2026 Final innings carried extra significance as it came on the biggest stage of the season. Having previously scored a half-century in the 2016 final defeat, Kohli finally played a title-winning knock in an IPL summit clash.
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Virat Kohli IPL 2026 Final : First Playoff Player of the Match Award
One of the biggest milestones from the Virat Kohli IPL 2026 Final was his first-ever Player of the Match award in an IPL playoff game. Despite featuring in 19 knockout matches since 2009, Kohli had never received the honour in a playoff fixture before this final.
His unbeaten innings under pressure proved decisive, earning him the award and adding another achievement to his illustrious IPL career.
Kohli Overtakes Rohit Sharma in Elite List
The Virat Kohli IPL 2026 Final performance also helped him reach a major personal milestone. The Player of the Match award was the 22nd of his IPL career, making him the Indian player with the most such awards in tournament history.
Kohli moved ahead of Rohit Sharma, who has 21 Player of the Match awards, and drew level with Chris Gayle on 22. Only AB de Villiers remains ahead with 25 awards.
Most Player of the Match Awards in IPL History
- AB de Villiers – 25
- Chris Gayle – 22
- Virat Kohli – 22
- Rohit Sharma – 21
- MS Dhoni – 18
A Historic Night for RCB and Kohli
The Virat Kohli IPL 2026 Final knock not only secured another championship for Royal Challengers Bengaluru but also reinforced Kohli’s status as one of the greatest players in IPL history. His calm approach, match-winning innings, and record-breaking achievement made the final a memorable occasion for both the player and the franchise.
As fans celebrate RCB’s title triumph, the Virat Kohli IPL 2026 Final performance will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most iconic innings of the season and another landmark chapter in Kohli’s legendary IPL journey.