Big scare for RCB: Kohli stays off the field during MI innings, Patidar gives update
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a vital win against Mumbai Indians, but concern grew as Virat Kohli did not take the field with an ankle issue. Despite the scare, skipper Rajat Patidar suggested that Kohli is likely fine. Kohli's half-century, however, etched his name in history as he became the first to score 1000 runs against MI.
NEW DELHI: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) may have roared back to winning ways with a commanding 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 a composed 50 off 38 balls, did not take the field during Mumbai’s chase due to an ankle issue, leaving fans concerned. Kohli was seen watching from the dressing room in a jacket, with youngster Jacob Bethell replacing him in the outfield.
Why Virat Kohli stayed off the field The decision to keep Kohli off the field was precautionary, triggered by discomfort in his ankle during RCB’s innings. While the franchise hasn’t confirmed the severity, the move suggested no risks were taken during a crucial phase of the tournament. Adding to the drama, Rohit Sharma too left the field mid-innings with a hamstring injury, making it a rare and concerning sight as two modern-day greats battled fitness issues in the same match.
Despite the anxiety, RCB skipper Rajat Patidar offered a calming update post-match. “I do not know yet, but I think he, I feel that he is okay right now,” Patidar said, indicating that the injury may not be serious. Patidar highlights Kohli’s impact Patidar also underlined how Kohli’s steady start alongside Phil Salt laid the foundation for RCB’s imposing total of 240/4.
“Whenever we come here… the atmosphere, the fans… it’s a different feeling,” Patidar said. “The way Virat bhai and Salt started the innings, I think that kept us in the driving seat. Then a good cameo by me and Tim (David), I think that was a pure team effort.