Virat Kohli’s form has been under scrutiny after two consecutive ducks in IPL 2026, but RCB teammate Krunal Pandya remains confident that the batting icon is on the verge of a strong resurgence just ahead of the playoffs.
In the match against Delhi Capitals in Raipur on Sunday, Kohli was dismissed first ball by Deepak Chahar, attempting to drive but finding Raj Bawa at mid-off. This followed a golden duck against Lucknow Super Giants, where Prince Yadav bowled him for nought.
Despite the recent slump, Kohli’s overall numbers this season remain impressive: 379 runs in 11 innings at an average of 42.11 and a strike rate above 163, including three half-centuries. However, with only 28 runs in his last three innings, questions have naturally emerged about his form in a tight playoff race.
Speaking after the match, Krunal Pandya addressed the concerns with calm confidence. “Virat Kohli is a champion player. When he fails for two games, I get more excited because I know he will come back. We are never tense about him. He is a different beast, he has a lot of hunger. From here on, I am sure Virat Kohli will do Virat Kohli things,” said the all-rounder.
Historical data backs Krunal’s optimism. The last time Kohli recorded back-to-back ducks was in international cricket against Australia in late 2025. He responded with a remarkable run: 74 not out in Sydney, 135 off 143 in Ranchi, 102 off 93 in Raipur, 65 not out off 45 in Visakhapatnam, and 93 off 91 against New Zealand in Vadodara.
Kohli’s lean patches have consistently been short-lived and followed by explosive innings. With the IPL 2026 playoffs approaching, RCB will hope that his comeback aligns perfectly with the crucial matches ahead.