Cricket News

Virat Kohli Century vs KKR: Dance Celebration Mistake at 98 Steals Show

Ishaan Dave · · 3 min read

Virat Kohli celebrating at 98

Virat Kohlis Electrifying 105* Sends RCB Soaring

Virat Kohli reminded cricket fans why he’s the king of run chases with a commanding 105* off just 60 balls in Royal Challengers Bangalores six-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders on May 13, 2026. The IPL match at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium witnessed a masterclass from the RCB opener, who not only anchored the chase but also delivered one of the most entertaining moments of the season.

KKR Post 192/4 Behind Raghuvanshi and Rinkus Fireworks

Winning the toss, RCB opted to bowl first—a decision that initially paid off. Their bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Salam Dar, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, kept early pressure on KKR, reducing them to 48/2. But that’s when two young guns stepped up.

Angkrish Raghuvanshi played a fearless knock of 71* off 46 balls, while Rinku Singh blazed to 49* off just 32 deliveries. Their unbroken 144-run stand for the third wicket propelled KKR to a challenging total of 192/4. RCB struggled to break the momentum in the death overs, and suddenly, the target looked anything but easy.

Kohli and Padikkal Steady the Ship

  • RCB needed 193 to win
  • Lost Jacob Bethell early for 15
  • Devdutt Padikkal smashed 39 off 27
  • 92-run stand with Kohli set foundation

Chasing 193, RCB got off to a shaky start when Bethell fell cheaply. But Virat Kohli remained unfazed. Pairing up with Devdutt Padikkal, the duo stitched a vital 92-run partnership that kept RCB on track. Padikkals aggressive 39, which included seven boundaries, took the pressure off Kohli and ensured RCB stayed ahead of the curve.

98 Not Out: The Celebration That Wasnt

The moment that will be replayed for weeks came in the 18th over. Facing Kartik Tyagi, Kohli launched an 88-metre six over deep mid-wicket—a shot so massive it sent the crowd into a frenzy. Caught in the adrenaline, Kohli turned around and broke into a celebratory dance, arms raised and feet moving, believing he had brought up his century.

Then, a split second later—he stopped.

He wasnt on 100. He was on 98.

Realizing his mistake, Kohli quickly composed himself, smiled sheepishly, and returned to his crease. The moment instantly went viral, with fans calling it “peak Kohli energy.” It was human, spontaneous, and utterly endearing.

Century Complete, Job Done

There was no further drama. In the very next over, Kohli reached his ninth IPL century in just 58 balls. He finished unbeaten on 105 off 60 deliveries, laced with 11 fours and 3 sixes. More importantly, he carried his bat through the innings, guiding RCB to 194/4 in 19.2 overs with effortless authority.

Back on Top and Back in Orange Cap Race

The win pushed RCB to the top of the IPL 2026 points table. More importantly, it marked Kohlis return to form after two consecutive ducks. With 484 runs in 12 matches, an average of 53.77, and a strike rate of 165.75, he has re-entered the Orange Cap conversation.

Currently behind Heinrich Klaasen and Sai Sudharsan in the standings, Kohlis consistency at the top will be crucial as RCB gears up for the business end of the tournament.

A Night to Remember

It wasnt just the century, nor just the victory. It was the raw, unfiltered joy of a champion who let his emotions take over—briefly—and turned a milestone moment into a cherished memory. Virat Kohli didnt just chase down 193. He chased away the doubts, the slumps, and even the scoreboard glitch in his head—with a dance and a smile.

And for millions watching, it was pure cricketing gold.