NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli illuminated the Narendra Modi Stadium with a stunning display of strokeplay, hammering five consecutive fours off Kagiso Rabada to achieve a special milestone in IPL 2026 on Thursday. Turning back the clock to his most destructive form, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru talisman came out with aggressive intent, dismantling Rabada in just the second over of the innings and leaving fans and experts amazed.
Kohli Joins Gayle and Watson in Exclusive List
With that remarkable sequence, Kohli became only the third batter in Royal Challengers Bengaluru history to hit five or more boundaries in a single over, joining an elite group featuring Chris Gayle and Shane Watson. This rare feat had been achieved only twice before in the franchise's history. Gayle first accomplished it in 2013 against Ishwar Pandey in Bengaluru, while Watson matched the record in 2016 against Thisara Perera. Kohli's effort in Ahmedabad now completes a remarkable trio, underscoring his enduring class and ability to dominate even the world's best bowlers.
The five boundaries showcased a complete range of strokeplay, from authoritative pulls to elegant drives and late cuts, highlighting why Kohli remains one of the most feared batters in the game.
RCB Batters with Five (or More) Fours in an Over
- 5 - Chris Gayle off Ishwar Pandey (PWI), Bengaluru, 2013
- 5 - Shane Watson off Thisara Perera (RPS), Bengaluru, 2016
- 5 - Virat Kohli off Kagiso Rabada (GT), Ahmedabad, 2026
Rabada Strikes Back After Early Onslaught
The carnage yielded 21 runs in Rabada's opening over, with Kohli racing to 28 off just 10 balls soon after, including a six off Mohammed Siraj, equalling the joint-fastest start of his T20 career in terms of runs off his first 10 deliveries. However, the contest had another twist. Rabada, unfazed by the early assault, returned strongly in his next over to have the last laugh. Bowling a sharp, short delivery, he hurried Kohli (28 off 13) into a mistimed shot that resulted in a top edge, comfortably caught by Rashid Khan at mid-wicket. The dismissal marked the fifth time Rabada has removed Kohli in T20 cricket, underlining the fascinating rivalry between the two stars.
Despite his brief stay, Kohli's explosive start set the tone for the innings and provided early momentum to RCB. His aggressive intent against a bowler of Rabada's calibre stood out as one of the defining moments of the match.
