New Delhi: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) may have returned to winning ways with an 18-run victory over Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, but the spotlight quickly shifted to a worrying development involving Virat Kohli.The RCB talisman, who scored 50 off 38 balls, missed the field during Mumbai’s chase due to an ankle injury, much to the dismay of the fans. Kohli was seen looking on from the dressing room in a jacket, with youngster Jacob Bethel replacing him in the outfield.
Why did Virat Kohli stay out of the field?
The decision to keep Kohli off the field was a precautionary one, prompted by an ankle injury he suffered during RCB’s innings. Although the franchise has not confirmed the magnitude, the move suggested that no risk was taken during a crucial phase of the tournament.Adding to the drama, Rohit Sharma also left the field mid-innings with a hamstring injury, making it a rare and notable sight as two modern-day greats battled fitness issues in the same match.Despite the worry, RCB captain Rajat Patidar offered a calm post-match update.“I don’t know yet, but I think he, I think he’s fine right now,” Patidar said, indicating the injury may not be serious.
Virat Kohli during MI innings at Wankhede. (video capture)
Patidar highlighted Kohli’s influence.Patidar also highlighted how Kohli’s steady start with full salt laid the foundation for RCB’s total of 240/4.“Every time we come here… the atmosphere, the fans… it’s a different feeling,” Patidar said. “The way Virat Bhai and Salt opened the innings, I think that put us in the driving seat. Then a good cameo from me and Tim (David), I think it was a pure team effort.”RCB’s batting unit clicked in unison, with Patidar scoring 53 runs off 20 balls and Tim David working solidly. Mumbai fought back thanks to Sheriff Rutherford’s explosive 71 off 31 balls, but fell short at 222/5.Even cutting a day off the field, Kohli wrote his name in the record books, becoming the first batsman to score 1000 runs against Mumbai Indians. He now has 1,030 runs against them, reinforcing his dominance.The innings also included a 120-run stand with Salt, which marked Kohli’s 47th T20 century partnership – the most by any player, overtaking Chris Gayle.While RCB celebrated an important win, all eyes will now be on Kohli’s recovery, with the franchise and fans hoping their biggest star returns to full fitness quickly.
