A touching, slightly awkward moment between Royal Challengers Bengaluru batter Virat Kohli and Lucknow Super Giants youngster Naman Tiwari has captured attention online after their IPL 2026 meeting on Wednesday. Kohli fell just short of a half-century, yet his knock helped RCB chase down the target with ease, sealing a five-wicket triumph. The win also propelled the Bengaluru side to the summit of the IPL points table.
Viral exchange on the field after the match
A clip that circulated on social media showed Kohli speaking with the LSG players gathered around him, with Tiwari and Mukul Choudhary standing on either side of the RCB star. During the conversation, Tiwari suddenly moved in to touch Kohli’s feet. Kohli looked visibly surprised, and before the gesture could fully land, he quickly stopped the youngster and then broke into laughter as the moment turned light-hearted.
RCB’s chase and Kohli’s knock
Earlier in the contest, Kohli addressed his team’s requirements with a disciplined contribution. He made 49 runs off 34 balls, setting up RCB’s pursuit of 146. Bengaluru successfully reached the target in 15.1 overs to secure the comfortable five-wicket victory.
Kohli’s fitness, tournament form and Orange Cap
After the game, Kohli said he was content with his intensity and approach even though he was not at full fitness. He pointed to knee discomfort and also noted that he had not been feeling completely well over the previous days.
- Kohli said he was “still not 100%” and that his knee had been sore in the previous match.
- He added that he had been under the weather for four or five days leading into the fixture.
- He noted that he was happy with how he started and the intensity he brought early on.
- He said he would have liked to keep going longer and finish the game off.
- Kohli highlighted that conditions had to be considered, particularly as the pitch slowed down.
- He explained that he aimed to keep the same rhythm, but felt he should have wrapped up the innings as well.
Fitness and form have both been themes for Kohli in IPL 2026. The captain was seen training at the Chinnaswamy Stadium with his left knee heavily strapped ahead of the match. He struck six fours and one six during his innings, taking his tournament tally to 228 runs at an average of 57—numbers that saw him claim the Orange Cap.
Tiwari’s IPL journey with Lucknow
Tiwari’s presence in the viral scene also reflects his IPL path so far. LSG had selected him for Rs 1 crore after a heated bidding duel that involved Rajasthan Royals.
- Tiwari was bought by Lucknow Super Giants for Rs 1 crore.
- The purchase came after a bidding battle that also featured Rajasthan Royals.
