All-rounder Venkatesh Iyer scored an unbeaten 73 runs, and Virat Kohli made a strong fifty as Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) set a formidable total of 222/4 in their IPL 2026 game against Punjab Kings at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium. RCB started cautiously, with Kohli and Jacob Bethell taking time to settle on a challenging pitch that favored the bowlers from Punjab.
Devdutt Padikkal’s aggressive play ensured RCB’s momentum, with Kohli also joining in quickly to keep the scoreboard ticking. The duo’s partnership of 76 runs was crucial before Padikkal fell for a quick 45. Kohli continued his fluent batting, reaching his fifty in just 31 balls, while Venkatesh Iyer accelerated the scoring with a well-made 73 off 40 deliveries.
Iyer’s explosive innings, supported by Tim David’s quick cameo, propelled RCB past the 220-run mark. Despite some resistance from Punjab Kings’ bowlers, RCB’s strong batting display, led by Iyer and Kohli, put them in a commanding position in the match.
