Why did Virat Kohli fight with umpires in GT vs RCB clash of IPL 2026?
(Courtesy : Twitter)
Virat Kohli scored quick-fire 28 runs in GT vs RCB clash of IPL 2026.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) clash against Gujarat Titans (GT) in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 saw a moment of controversy after Rajat Patidar’s dismissal, which triggered a strong reaction from Virat Kohli.
The incident occurred when the RCB skipper attempted a pull shot to a short delivery that held up on the surface. The ball took a top edge and went towards deep square leg, where Jason Holder moved to his right and completed the catch despite Kagiso Rabada also running in from short fine leg. The on-field decision was referred to the third umpire for confirmation.
Replays, however, did not provide a clear view of whether the catch was cleanly made, particularly because the ball appeared close to the ground during the attempt. Despite the inconclusive visuals, the third umpire ruled the batter out, confirming the dismissal.
Why Virat Kohli fought with umpires in GT vs RCB clash of IPL 2026?
That decision led to visible frustration in the RCB camp. Virat Kohli, who was off the field at the time, was seen near the boundary ropes and engaged in an animated exchange with the fourth umpire. His reaction was immediate and sustained, indicating clear disagreement with the decision-making process.
The former captain continued to express his displeasure even after the dismissal was officially confirmed, citing a lack of definitive evidence in the replays. Kohli immediately walked up to the umpire, and was seen having an animated discussion, RCB coach Andy Flower joined him. The RCB camp appeared unhappy with the outcome, believing the benefit of doubt could have gone in favour of Patidar.
The wicket came at a crucial phase of the innings, with RCB already under pressure after losing both their openers early. Patidar’s dismissal further dented their middle-order stability, forcing the side to rebuild against a disciplined Gujarat Titans bowling attack.
RCB’s innings was held together briefly by Devdutt Padikkal, who scored 40 off 24 balls and provided stability after early wickets. His knock ensured RCB maintained a steady scoring rate through the middle overs and avoided a complete collapse during that phase.
However, once Padikkal was dismissed, the innings lost direction. Following Rajat Patidar’s wicket, no batter managed to settle or build a partnership, with wickets falling at regular intervals and the lower order failing to add significant runs.
Who won the toss in GT vs RCB clash of IPL 2026?
GT won the toss and opted to field first.
Why was the decision considered controversial?
The replays did not clearly confirm a clean catch, leading to doubts over the decision.
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Anubha Anandita Pathak is a sports enthusiast with a strong passion for cricket and basketball, shaped by her experience as a district-level basketball and kabaddi player. A loyal Golden State Warriors supporter, she closely follows Stephen Curry’s style of play. With on-ground reporting experience covering the Indian Super League and Karnataka’s hockey circuit, Anubha brings both perspective and passion to her storytelling.