Virat Kohli Abruptly Takes Over Gujarat Titans’ Team Photoshoot – Virat Kohli’s Hilarious Antics During RCB vs GT Qualifier 1
A Pre-Match Moment of Levity
The atmosphere at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala on May 26 was electric. With a direct ticket to the IPL 2026 Final on the line, the tension between the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the Gujarat Titans (GT) was palpable. Yet, amidst the heavy expectations, one man remained typically expressive: Virat Kohli. Known for his intense focus during gameplay, Kohli also possesses a well-documented playful side that often manifests in entertaining interactions with his peers.
As the Gujarat Titans gathered for their formal team photoshoot near the boundary ropes, Kohli decided to inject a bit of mischief into the proceedings. From the sidelines, the RCB talisman was spotted making the famous ‘Babaji Ka Thullu’ gesture in the direction of the Titans’ squad. It was a classic Kohli moment—lighthearted, cheeky, and completely unbothered by the gravity of the upcoming playoff clash.
The Kohli-Gill Bromance
This incident was merely the latest in a series of lighthearted interactions between Kohli and his counterpart, Shubman Gill, throughout the 2026 season. The two have shared numerous moments on screen that fans have found endearing, ranging from Kohli playfully checking out the GT skipper’s beard to engaging in banter on the field. Their relationship reflects a deep mutual respect, which allows for such candid, friendly ribbing even on the biggest stages of professional cricket.
Despite the ‘Babaji Ka Thullu’ gesture being directed toward them, the Gujarat Titans players remained focused on their task, choosing not to respond to the playful provocation. Kohli, for his part, enjoyed the moment, laughing it off as he turned his attention back to the preparations for the monumental game ahead.
Dominance on the Pitch
While the pre-match antics provided a moment of levity, the actual contest on the field was a masterclass in dominance from the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. After being put into bat by the Titans, RCB wasted no time in asserting their authority. Though Venkatesh Iyer departed early, Virat Kohli set the pace with a crisp 25-ball 43, laying a solid foundation for the middle order.
The highlight of the innings, however, was a breathtaking performance by captain Rajat Patidar. In a display of pure power-hitting, Patidar blazed his way to a 33-ball 93. Striking at an incredible 281, he dismantled the GT bowling attack and propelled RCB past the 250-run mark. This total set a new benchmark, becoming the highest score ever recorded in an IPL playoff match, effectively putting the game out of reach for the opposition before the second innings even began.
A Bowler’s Nightmare
Chasing such a massive target, the Gujarat Titans crumbled under the pressure. The RCB pace trio—Josh Hazlewood, Jacob Duffy, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar—were relentless. Their precise line and length consistently choked the Titans’ top order. The collapse was swift and severe; Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan both fell within the first four overs, triggering a domino effect that saw five GT wickets tumble inside the powerplay.
By the 12th over, the Titans were reeling at 88 for 8, with the match effectively decided. Although Rahul Tewatia provided a glimmer of resistance with a valiant 43-ball 68, it was a case of too little, too late. The Gujarat Titans were eventually bundled out in 19.3 overs, handing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru a comprehensive victory by 92 runs. With this emphatic win, RCB punched their ticket to the IPL 2026 Final, capping off a day that began with a laugh and ended in complete sporting superiority.
