New Delhi: Star batsman Virat Kohli proved that he is still at the top of his game with a brilliant unbeaten 69 in IPL 2026, helping Royal Challengers Bengaluru chase down 202 against Sunrisers Hyderabad with ease. His performance has impressed many, especially Ambati Rayudu, who believes that Kohli is far from retirement and still has plenty of cricket left in him.Kohli looked in complete control during the chase, playing elegant shots including a soaring straight drive and his trademark flick for a six. His innings elicited strong reactions from former India batsman Rayudu.
He watches
Greenstone Lobo predicts winner of IPL 2026
“I don’t think he’s nearing the end of his career. I think he still has five or six quality years ahead of him, and as Sanjay (Bhanjar) and I discussed earlier, he should be back in Test cricket as well – and hopefully as a captain,” Rayudu told ESPNCricinfo.
“We are serious. He is the best red ball captain I have seen
Indian cricket
“And the way he is batting now is a loss for Indian cricket,” he added.Kohli retired from Test cricket in 2025.In the match, Hyderabad recovered from a poor start thanks to Ishan Kishan’s quick 80 and Ankit Verma’s support to reach 201/9.In response, Kohli led the charge, supported by Devdutt Padikkal and Rajat Patidar. Bengaluru chased down the target in just 15.4 overs, the fastest 200+ chase
IPL
date.
reconnaissance
In your opinion, what was the highlight of Virat Kohli’s recent performance?
Kohli also achieved a major feat, becoming the first player to score more than 4,000 IPL runs in chases and surpass Shoaib Malik in the T20 charts, capping off a memorable night.