Virat Kohli’s Stunning Century Powers RCB to 6-Wicket Victory Over KKR in IPL 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) delivered a dominant performance on 13 May 2026 as they defeated Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 6 wickets in a high-scoring IPL thriller. The night belonged to Virat Kohli, who smashed a sensational unbeaten century and guided RCB to a memorable chase in front of an electrified crowd.

KKR posted a challenging total of 192/4 in 20 overs after impressive batting performances from Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Rinku Singh. However, RCB chased the target confidently, reaching 194/4 in just 19.1 overs and strengthening their position at the top of the IPL 2026 points table. (The Indian Express)

KKR Build a Strong Total

After being asked to bat first, Kolkata Knight Riders started aggressively. Finn Allen attacked early, but RCB struck back quickly with Bhuvneshwar Kumar removing him in the powerplay. Despite the early wicket, KKR maintained momentum through skipper Ajinkya Rahane and young star Angkrish Raghuvanshi.

Raghuvanshi played one of the finest knocks of his IPL career, scoring a brilliant 71 off 46 balls with elegant stroke play all around the ground. His innings included seven boundaries and three sixes. Cameron Green added useful runs in the middle overs, while Rinku Singh finished strongly with an unbeaten 49 off 29 balls. (The Times of India)

KKR’s final score of 192/4 looked highly competitive, especially considering the pressure of the playoff race.

Virat Kohli Takes Complete Control

Chasing 193, RCB came out with positive intent. Virat Kohli looked in sublime touch from the very beginning and completely dominated the KKR bowling attack. He mixed classy drives with aggressive stroke play and ensured the required run rate never became a problem.

Devdutt Padikkal supported Kohli with an important 39-run innings, helping RCB maintain momentum during the middle overs. Even after a few wickets fell, Kohli remained calm and controlled the chase perfectly. (The Indian Express)

The former RCB captain eventually reached his ninth IPL century, finishing unbeaten on 105 runs from just 60 deliveries. His masterclass included powerful sixes, elegant cover drives, and trademark timing that left fans and experts in awe. (The Economic Times)

Tim David and the lower middle order ensured there were no late surprises as RCB crossed the finish line with five balls remaining.

Match Turning Points

• Virat Kohli’s unbeaten century completely changed the momentum of the chase.
• Devdutt Padikkal’s partnership with Kohli stabilized the innings after an early wicket.
• KKR missed important chances in the field, including a dropped catch of Padikkal.
• Rinku Singh’s late hitting helped KKR reach a strong total, but the bowling unit failed to stop Kohli’s brilliance. (The Indian Express)

Key Performers

Royal Challengers Bengaluru

• Virat Kohli – 105* (60)
• Devdutt Padikkal – 39
• Tim David – Important finishing cameo

Kolkata Knight Riders

• Angkrish Raghuvanshi – 71 (46)
• Rinku Singh – 49* (29)
• Kartik Tyagi – 3 wickets

Impact on IPL 2026 Points Table

This victory was extremely important for RCB as it pushed them to the top of the IPL 2026 standings and brought them closer to playoff qualification. KKR, meanwhile, suffered a major setback in their playoff hopes despite putting up a strong batting performance. (Business Standard)

Conclusion

The RCB vs KKR clash on May 13, 2026, will be remembered for Virat Kohli’s vintage masterclass. In a pressure-filled encounter, Kohli once again proved why he remains one of the greatest players in IPL history. His century not only secured a crucial win for Bengaluru but also sent a strong message to the rest of the league as the playoffs approach.