Virat Kohli’s stunning stat gives RCB massive hope ahead of IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 vs GT

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who finished at the top of the points table during the league stage of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, are now set to begin their title defence as they face Gujarat Titans (GT) in Qualifier 1 at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala.

However, RCB will face a massive challenge against GT's dangerous bowling attack featuring Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and superstar spinner Rashid Khan.

Still, one major stat involving talismanic batter Virat Kohli will give the men in red and gold massive confidence heading into the crucial playoff clash.

Kohli’s incredible fifty-plus record boosts RCB's hopes

According to an incredible statistic, Kohli has registered 16 fifty-plus scores since IPL 2024, and, remarkably, RCB has won all 16 of those matches. The stat highlights just how important Kohli remains to RCB’s success, especially in high-pressure encounters.

Going by the numbers, if the 37-year-old manages to produce another big knock against the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1, it could massively improve RCB’s chances of sealing a direct entry into the IPL 2026 final.

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Virat Kohli has already been in sensational form throughout the ongoing season and has also significantly improved his strike rate — an area for which he had often been criticised in previous years.

The veteran batter has shown a far more aggressive approach this season while still maintaining consistency at the top of the order.

Virat Kohli enjoying another brilliant IPL season for RCB

In 14 matches so far in IPL 2026, Kohli has scored 557 runs at an average of 50.64 and a strike rate of 163.82. The RCB star has smashed four half-centuries and one century during the campaign and continues to remain one of the most consistent performers in the tournament.

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His strong form has played a massive role in helping RCB finish as league-stage table toppers. RCB have now reached the IPL playoffs for the 11th time overall and qualified for the playoffs for the third consecutive season.

The defending champions will now hope Virat Kohli delivers once again when they take on GT in one of the biggest matches of the season.