Virat Kohli once again proved why he’s still one of the most reliable batters in world cricket, guiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a clinical nine-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Jaipur during their IPL 2025 face-off. His unbeaten 62 wasn’t just another match-winning knock; it was his 100th T20 half-century, a milestone that speaks volumes of his legacy.
Chasing 174 on a good batting surface, RCB were off to a flyer, thanks to Phil Salt’s blistering 65 off just 33 balls. The English opener set the tone early, putting RR on the backfoot. Once Salt departed, Kohli took control. He didn't hammer and tongs right away. Instead, he absorbed the pressure, read the pitch, and gradually shifted gears, a masterclass in anchoring a chase.
Kohli reached his fifty with a massive six over long-on, a classic Kohli moment that had the crowd on their feet. But right after, there was a surprising, and slightly worrying, moment. While on 54, Kohli asked RR captain and wicketkeeper Sanju Samson to check his heartbeat. The 36-year-old seemed a little uneasy, pressing his chest, which sparked concern among fans. Thankfully, after a brief check and a nod from Samson, Kohli carried on. And carry on he did, with Devdutt Padikkal by his side. The duo ran quick twos, rotated the strike effortlessly, and ensured there were no hiccups on the way to the finish line.
RCB wrapped up the chase with 2.3 overs to spare, looking confident and composed throughout. Kohli’s 62 was not just his third half-century this season, but his 66th in the IPL and 100th in T20s overall, a staggering achievement. He now stands level with David Warner in the all-time T20 half-centuries list, with only Warner ahead at 108. Babar Azam follows with 90.
What stood out most wasn’t just the numbers, but the poise with which Kohli played. In a format that often rewards aggression, he showed the value of timing, temperament, and experience. His presence at the crease continues to inspire both teammates and fans alike. RCB’s campaign gets a solid boost with this win, and with Kohli in this kind of form, they’ll be feeling more confident than ever.
Once again, he led from the front, not just with the bat, but with heart. The match, played on April 13, 2025, was a crucial one for RCB as they strive to secure their playoff position in the competitive IPL 2025 season.
In a surprising moment during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) chase against Rajasthan Royals (RR), Virat Kohli was heard asking Sanju Samson to check his heartbeat after completing a tough run in the 15th over. The incident occurred when Kohli, who remained unbeaten on 62, sprinted for two runs off Wanindu Hasaranga’s delivery. Exhausted by the Jaipur heat, the star batter turned to RR skipper Samson and said in Hindi, "Heartbeat check karna" (Check my heartbeat). Samson, who was wicketkeeping, responded with a smile: “It’s okay.” The conversation, picked up by the stump mic, quickly went viral on social media.
RCB then took a strategic timeout, allowing Kohli to recover before finishing his match-winning innings. Medical staff checked on him during the break, but he showed no signs of serious discomfort and continued to lead RCB to a convincing nine-wicket victory with 15 balls to spare. Kohli appeared in good spirits after the win, celebrating a crucial result that keeps RCB’s playoff hopes alive in IPL 2025.
Following the game, Sanju Samson praised both Kohli and Phil Salt, who contributed 30 off 20 balls, for their explosive 92-run opening stand. “We knew they would come hard at us, and I think they won the game in the powerplay. Credit to RCB. The ball came on better in the second innings. They were really good,” Samson said at the post-match presentation.
Despite the intense heat, Kohli’s composed knock once again demonstrated why he’s regarded as one of the best in the game. During the same match, the former RCB captain also achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first Indian—and only the second batter in T20 history—to score 100 half-centuries. He reached this feat in his 405th T20 appearance, solidifying his legacy in the format.
The match not only highlighted Kohli's batting prowess but also showcased RCB's depth and strategy, as they executed their game plan flawlessly against a competitive RR side. As the IPL season progresses, this victory sets a positive tone for RCB, who look to build momentum heading into the latter stages of the tournament.
With Kohli leading the charge and a strong supporting cast, RCB fans can be optimistic about their team's chances as they aim for the coveted IPL trophy this season. The combination of experience, skill, and determination displayed in this match serves as a reminder of why cricket is such a thrilling sport, filled with moments that can change the course of a game in an instant.
