Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

The Virat Kohli century in Raipur lifted Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a confident chase of 193 against Kolkata Knight Riders and sent them top of the IPL 2026 points table.

Kohli arrived after two straight ducks, but responded with his ninth Indian Premier League hundred as Royal Challengers Bengaluru took control of the chase. Devdutt Padikkal, who shared a 92-run second-wicket stand with him, said the innings was special to watch from close range.

For more Indian Premier League updates, readers can follow SmartB’s latest RCB vs KKR coverage, while official match details are available through the Indian Premier League website.

Kohli Answers Back in Raipur

"It was incredible to watch," Padikkal said. "I think I had the best seat in the house. Some of the shots he played were simply remarkable."

Kohli had admitted to feeling a "bit nervous" after his lean run, but Padikkal said there was no sign of hesitation once the former India captain settled at the crease. Royal Challengers Bengaluru paced the chase smartly, with Padikkal making 39 off 27 balls before falling at 129 for 2 in 13.1 overs.

Padikkal Praises Calm Chase

"Obviously, coming into this game after two ducks is never easy, and he showed why he is who he is," Padikkal said. "To not have that on his mind and to just go out there and bat the way he does was something incredible. Really happy to see him get those runs."

Padikkal said the plan was to keep the partnership going and leave the middle order with a manageable finish. He also felt the Raipur surface became easier once the early swing faded.

Impact Sub Role Helps Padikkal

Padikkal said fielding before batting as an Impact Sub helped him read the pitch and match tempo.

"You don't want to come in cold when you are batting. So I think it definitely helps, and hopefully I can field a lot more."