high-voltage ipl 2026 clash between Gujarat Titans And Royal Challengers Bangalore Narendra Modi Stadium lived up to its capacity and fans witnessed a wonderful throwback innings Virat Kohli. Despite being invited to bat, RCB lost early wickets. Shubman GillKohli briefly reversed the clock with a breathtaking counter-attack that electrified the packed stadium.
Gill’s decision to bowl first paid immediate dividends as Gujarat Titans bowlers were aggressive early on, putting RCB under pressure in the powerplay. However, just when it looked like the innings might collapse, Kohli stepped up with authority, showing the aggression and accuracy that has made him the most dangerous batsman in world cricket.
Virat Kohli clean bowled Kagiso Rabada with 5 consecutive fours.
facing south african fast bowler Kagiso Rabada In the second over, Kohli delivered a masterclass in strokeplay, hitting five consecutive fours in what quickly became one of the standout moments of IPL 2026.
The first delivery, slightly short, was dispatched with a powerful pull over mid-wicket. On the next ball, Kohli lofted a back-of-a-length delivery brilliantly over mid-off. With growing confidence, he sent the third ball past point and completed a hat-trick of boundaries.
Rabada, known for his discipline, tried to adjust his line, but Kohli was in complete control. The fourth ball was cleverly cut towards square third man, while the fifth ball – pitched outside off – was driven through cover with trademark finesse. In terms of delivery, Kohli had completely changed the pace and reminded fans of his peak years. The crowd went wild with every shot and chants echoed throughout the stadium, celebrating a rare glimpse of Kohli’s old dominance.
Here is the video:
Gets speed 🤌
🎥Virat Kohli with 5 consecutive boundaries against Kagiso Rabada 🔥
Update ▶️ https://t.co/I5Hg8ybefh#TATAIPL | #khelbindaas | #GTvRCB | @RCBTweets pic.twitter.com/mdunPUJiV0
– IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) 30 April 2026
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Rabada responded strongly
However, cricket is a game of fine margins and rapid change. After being dismissed in his opening over, Rabada demonstrated his class and resilience by making a strong comeback.
In the fourth over of the innings, the Proteas bowled a fast, hostile bouncer which stunned Kohli. Attempting to take the short ball, Kohli moved up the pitch but failed to control the shot. The ball took the top edge and flew towards mid-wicket, where Rashid Khan completed a safe catch.
Rabada’s animated celebration reflected both relief and determination, as the final decision was his in an entertaining little battle. The dismissal not only halted Kohli’s momentum but also cost Gujarat Titans a crucial breakthrough at a crucial stage of the innings.
Although Kohli’s stay at the crease was brief, his explosive strokeplay provided fans with one of the most memorable moments of the season. Five consecutive fours against a bowler of Rabada’s caliber highlighted his enduring quality and ability to dominate even under pressure.
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