Virat Kohli Abruptly Takes Over Gujarat Titans’ Team Photoshoot – Virat Kohli’s Hilarious Antics Before RCB’s Playoff Win Over Gujarat Titans
A Lighthearted Start to a High-Stakes Clash
In the high-pressure environment of the Indian Premier League, where every ball carries the weight of a franchise’s aspirations, finding a moment of levity is rare. However, for Virat Kohli, the intensity of a playoff match does not preclude a bit of fun. On May 26, as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) prepared for their crucial Qualifier 1 clash against the Gujarat Titans in Dharamsala, Kohli provided a memorable moment of comic relief that delighted fans and showcased his relaxed demeanor.
(Image Credits: AFP)
While the Gujarat Titans were busy conducting their official pre-match photoshoot near the boundary ropes, Kohli, ever the character, could not resist the opportunity to pull the legs of the ‘Aava De’ squad. Despite the gravity of the upcoming match, Kohli’s playful nature took center stage, proving once again that he thrives even in the most intense atmospheres.
Kohli’s Playful Pranks on Shubman Gill
The relationship between Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill has been one of the highlights of the season. Far from the stoic intensity often seen on the field, the duo has shared several lighthearted interactions throughout the tournament. Whether it was Kohli humorously inspecting the GT skipper’s beard or engaging in friendly banter during match play, their rapport has become a fan favorite.
As the Gujarat Titans assembled for their team photos, Kohli was spotted on the sidelines in a visibly buoyant mood. To the amusement of spectators, he decided to perform the iconic ‘Babaji Ka Thullu’ gesture directed toward the GT squad. The moment was captured by fans in the stands, with Kohli seen laughing off the gesture himself. Interestingly, while the RCB star was in high spirits, the Titans remained focused on their routine, seemingly unfazed by the playful provocation, or perhaps choosing to keep their game faces on.
The Dominance of Royal Challengers Bengaluru
While the pre-match antics provided a humorous backdrop, the actual game turned into a masterclass of dominance by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. After losing the toss and being sent in to bat, RCB showed no signs of hesitation. Although opener Venkatesh Iyer departed early, Virat Kohli provided a steady hand with a brisk 25-ball 43, setting a solid foundation for the middle order.
The standout performance, however, came from captain Rajat Patidar. In an innings that will be remembered for years to come, Patidar played a captain’s knock, smashing a 33-ball 93. His aggressive approach and a staggering strike rate of 281 left the GT bowling attack shell-shocked. Patidar’s blitzkrieg helped propel RCB past the 250-run mark, setting the highest team total ever recorded in an IPL playoff game.
A Comprehensive Collapse for the Titans
Faced with a mountainous target, the Gujarat Titans struggled to find their rhythm. The RCB bowling unit, spearheaded by Josh Hazlewood, Jacob Duffy, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, maintained relentless pressure from the very first over. The Titans’ chase effectively evaporated within the powerplay as they lost five crucial wickets, including openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan.
By the time the game reached the 12th over, the Titans were reeling at 88 for 8, with the result all but decided. A brief spark of resistance came from Rahul Tewatia, who fought valiantly with a 43-ball 68, but it was not enough to delay the inevitable. The Gujarat Titans were bundled out in 19.3 overs, handing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru a emphatic 92-run victory and a direct ticket to the IPL 2026 final.
Ultimately, the day belonged to RCB. From Kohli’s lighthearted gestures that settled his team’s nerves to the ruthless efficiency shown by the entire squad on the field, it was a performance that underscored why they are among the top contenders for the trophy this season.
