.jpg?type=hq)
Virat Kohli in IPL 2026 (Source: AFP)
Virat Kohli has once again become the centre of attention for his brilliant performance in the ongoing IPL 2026. The star batter has shown a new approach this year, playing with more aggression right from the start of his innings.
However, his aggression has been controlled and well-planned, and a similar approach was seen during the RCB vs GT match 34 of the IPL 2026.
Over the years, Virat Kohli has built a reputation for consistency and chasing down targets under pressure. In IPL 2026, he has added a more attacking dimension to his game, making him even more dangerous for bowlers.
Despite all the praise, comparisons with other top players, especially Joe Root, have once again come into the spotlight after recent events.
Virat Kohli’s Heroics in RCB vs GT Clash
In match 34 of IPL 2026, Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Gujarat Titans by five wickets in a high-scoring encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Gujarat Titans posted a strong total of 205/3, powered by Sai Sudharsan’s brilliant century.
However, the match turned in RCB's favour due to a crucial moment early in the chase. Kohli was dropped on the very first ball, giving him a lifeline.
That mistake proved costly, as he went on to score a match-winning 81 runs off just 44 balls. His innings included eight boundaries and four sixes, which set the tone for the chase.
Alongside him, Devdutt Padikkal played an explosive knock of 55 off 27 balls. Together, they ensured RCB chased down the target comfortably in 18.5 overs, with seven balls remaining. The victory marked RCB's fifth win in seven matches and helped them climb to second place in the points table.
Several records broken by Virat Kohli
During Virat Kohli's remarkable knock, he became the first player in IPL history to reach 800 fours. Virat also completed 300 sixes in the league. Additionally, Kohli has received 20 POTM awards in IPL history, putting him just one behind Rohit Sharma in the all-time list.
It is important to note that Kohli has now scored 328 runs in 7 matches in IPL 2026, averaging 54.66 and striking at 163.18. He has already scored three half-centuries this season.
Michael Vaughan Takes Brutal Dig at Virat Kohli
After Kohli's outstanding performance, former England captain Michael Vaughan took a cheeky dig at Indian star Kohli on social media.
England's star player, Sam Billings, posted on X (formerly Twitter), praising Kohli’s batting. He wrote that there is nothing better than watching Kohli in full flow.
"Is there anything better than watching Virat Kohli in full flow 💥💥💥💥💥"
Vaughan, however, responded with a sharp reply: “Yes… Joe Root.”
The comment quickly went viral, once again bringing attention to the long-standing comparison between Kohli and Joe Root. Both players are part of cricket’s famous ‘Fab Four,’ alongside Steve Smith and Kane Williamson.
It is worth noting that Kohli continues to dominate limited-overs cricket (currently in ODI only). He is widely regarded as one of the greatest ODI batters in history, currently ranked No. 2 in the ICC Men's ODI batting rankings.
On the other hand, Root has pulled ahead in Test cricket. He is currently ranked No. 1 in the ICC Men’s Test Batting Rankings with 880 points.
Also Read: LSG Player Ruled Out Of IPL 2026, Rishabh Pant's Men Dented
