After his blistering knock of 61 runs off just 26 balls in the opening game against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Devdutt Padikkal credited Virat Kohli for making his job at the crease easier. Padikkal said that when a player like Kohli is at the other end, he knows exactly what to do, allowing others to play fearlessly.
Padikkal believes that Kohli’s presence alone gives teammates the confidence to express themselves, while he adapts his approach to anchor the innings or accelerate depending on the situation. According to him, having a player like Kohli at the crease creates a perfect balance between freedom and strategy, making run chases significantly smoother for the entire team.
Virat Kohli’s presence at the crease is proving to be a masterclass for young RCB players such as Devdutt Padikkal and Rajat Patidar. Paddikal revealed that having Kohli at the other end allows him to play with complete freedom, knowing the senior batsman can anchor the innings or accelerate as needed.
Devdutt Padikkal said, “Having Virat Kohli at the other end in the run chases makes your job a lot easier. He exactly knows what tempo is required in such chases”.
This guidance is not just tactical; it builds immense confidence, helping youngsters express themselves fearlessly in high-pressure chases. Kohli’s experience, calm under pressure, and ability to read the game are subtly mentoring the next generation, turning potential pressure situations into opportunities.
That's why several cricket expert also believes that RCB’s early success in IPL 2026 is as much about Kohli’s leadership and mentorship as it is about his own explosive performances, making him the true backbone of the team.
The K&P Partnership Has Won Matches Over the Years
Virat Kohli and Devdutt Padikkal are pillars for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, forming one of the most dangerous opening partnerships in IPL history. When both are in form, it becomes nearly impossible for opposition teams to break their stand, a fact clearly demonstrated in their opening game of IPL 2026 against Sunrisers Hyderabad. A
After RCB lost their first wicket, Philip Salt, on just 8 runs while chasing a target of 202, Kohli and Padikkal took charge. They built a solid partnership, rotating the strike efficiently, punishing loose deliveries, and keeping the scoreboard ticking. Their combined aggression and composure not only stabilized the innings but also put immense pressure on the SRH bowlers.
This duo holds the record for the highest partnership average among pairs with 500+ runs in IPL chases, and their 101-run stand off 45 balls in IPL 2026 was the fastest successful chase of a 200+ target in IPL history, with Padikkal scoring 61 off 26 balls and Kohli remaining unbeaten on 69*, steering RCB to a 6-wicket win.
With both of them firing right from the first game, it’s a promising sign for RCB’s team management as they look ahead in the tournament, knowing more innings like this will be crucial.
Can Virat Kohli Lead RCB to Another Title?
After yesterday’s game, it’s clearly visible that RCB entered this tournament as a champion team, determined to defend the title they won after a long wait of 17 years. Apart from Philip Salt, all other players impressed with their performances.
Debutant Duffy dismantled SRH’s strong batting lineup by picking the first three wickets in the powerplay while conceding just 22 runs at an efficient economy of 5.50. Meanwhile, captain Rajat Patidar showcased his power by scoring 31 runs in just 12 balls at a strike rate of 250+.
There is no doubt that this team can retain their title easily. However, it will largely depend on Virat Kohli’s performance and how he continues to inspire the young players through his innings. Royal Challengers Bengaluru will play their second match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on 5th April at the same venue.Also read: "I find him quite bizarre": Ravichandran Ashwin’s no-nonsense verdict on Virat Kohli
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