IPL match, catch drop sparks big remark on Virat Kohli by veteran cricketer
CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad says dropping Virat Kohli’s catch proved costly as RCB defeated CSK by 43 runs in IPL 2026 clash at Bengaluru.
Bengaluru (The Uttam Hindu): Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered their third consecutive defeat in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a convincing 43-run victory on Sunday at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad admitted that dropping an early catch of Virat Kohli proved costly and may have altered the outcome of the match. “Honestly, even I was surprised. If we had taken that early catch, the match could have tilted in our favour,” he said, reflecting on the turning point.
Batting first, RCB posted a massive 250/3, putting CSK under pressure from the outset. In response, CSK were bowled out for 207 in 19.4 overs despite fighting efforts from the middle order. Gaikwad acknowledged contributions from players like Sarfaraz, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, and Shivam Dube, but admitted that the top order, including himself, could have done better.
Kohli, who scored 28 off 18 balls, got an early lifeline when a straightforward catch was dropped by Dube at mid-on off Khaleel Ahmed’s bowling. Gaikwad noted that while the game was still within reach until the 13th or 14th over, the momentum shifted thereafter.
On the other hand, RCB captain Rajat Patidar expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance. “It feels great to win. When you play good cricket, it brings a different level of satisfaction,” he said. He praised the opening partnership between Phil Salt and Kohli, which laid a strong foundation for the innings.
Patidar also highlighted the team’s positive mindset and credited the support system for his confident approach. He reserved special praise for Tim David, who smashed an unbeaten 70 off just 25 balls. “He is a specialist and one of the best finishers in the world. His consistency and ability to close out games make him stand out,” Patidar added.
With momentum on their side, RCB now look ahead with confidence, while CSK will aim to bounce back after a string of disappointing results.