IPL

Kohli's Record-Smashing Ton: RCB Roar Back in IPL, Gayle's Mark Toppled

By The HistorianMay 13, 2026
Kohli's Record-Smashing Ton: RCB Roar Back in IPL, Gayle's Mark Toppled

Virat Kohli, a name synonymous with modern cricket brilliance. He hasn't just broken another record; he’s rewritten the script.

With a masterful, unbeaten 105, Virat Kohli propelled Royal Challengers Bangalore to a six-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders, a win that meant so much more than just two points. This knock wasn't just about the runs; it was about redemption, transforming what was a hefty INR 3.15 crore loss into an impressive INR 10 lakh profit over a mere three matches. And in the annals of cricket, that turnaround will be spoken about for some time.

But let's talk about that century. It wasn't just any hundred. This was Kohli's ninth IPL hundred, extending his already imposing record and surging past the legendary Chris Gayle. One ponders, where does this rank among his finest? To see him, after reaching the milestone, offer a little jig, a celebratory dance, it spoke volumes. It was reminiscent of the joy Brian Lara used to display after reaching a big score – pure, unadulterated passion for the game.

It’s a different game these days, of course. Back in the '90s, you didn't see these kinds of scores in T20 cricket. A batsman making a century in a T20 match? That was unheard of. Now, Virat Kohli is making it look almost commonplace. Though not everyone has the ability to come off so strong. To come down the pitch and smash it. To see such front-foot play these days brings a smile.

Kohli's innings was a masterclass in pacing. He weathered the early storm, built his innings with characteristic grit, and then unleashed a flurry of boundaries to seal the victory. Remember those chases in the 2016 T20 World Cup? This felt like echoes of those vintage Kohli performances. It wasn't just power-hitting; it was about placement, timing, and an uncanny ability to find the gaps. He was watchful around that off stump line. He didn’t offer anything in that corridor of uncertainty.

The significance of this knock extends beyond personal milestones. RCB needed this win. They were under pressure, and Kohli, as he has done so often throughout his career, stood up to be counted. This victory breathes new life into their IPL campaign. To see Kohli taking responsibility, especially with the weight of expectation always on his shoulders, is a sight that will delight cricket fans. Don't you think?

Kohli's consistency is remarkable. Not since Sachin Tendulkar have we seen such a hunger for runs, such a relentless pursuit of excellence. Each time he walks out to the crease, he seems determined to surpass his previous best. And this century? It's a statement. He isn't just participating; he's dominating.

What awaits Virat Kohli and RCB? They’ll be looking to build on this momentum. The road to the playoffs is long, but with Kohli in this kind of form, anything is possible.