Virat Kohli Abruptly Takes Over Gujarat Titans’ Team Photoshoot – Virat Kohli’s Hilarious Antics During RCB vs GT IPL 2026 Qualifier

A Lighthearted Start to a High-Stakes Clash

The intensity of the IPL playoffs is often palpable, with players usually locked in deep concentration as they prepare for the battle ahead. However, on May 26, 2026, at the picturesque Dharamsala stadium, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) legend Virat Kohli decided to inject a bit of humor into the pre-match atmosphere. As the Gujarat Titans (GT) squad gathered for their customary official photoshoot near the boundary ropes, Kohli, known for his vibrant personality, couldn’t resist a playful jab at his opponents.

Kohli and Gill: A Relationship of Banter

The camaraderie between Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill has been a recurring highlight of the 2026 season. Throughout the tournament, fans have witnessed numerous interactions between the veteran stalwart and the young GT skipper. Whether it is Kohli playfully inspecting Gill’s beard or engaging in lighthearted ribbing on the field, the duo shares a rapport that fans have grown to love. This latest incident was merely an extension of the friendly rivalry that exists between these two star cricketers.

The ‘Babaji Ka Thullu’ Moment

As the Gujarat Titans were busy with their team photoshoot, Kohli was spotted by spectators near the sidelines. In a hilarious sequence captured on camera, the RCB star performed the famous ‘Babaji Ka Thullu’ gesture directed toward the GT squad. The humor was evident as Kohli laughed off his own gesture, clearly enjoying the moment despite the immense pressure of the looming Qualifier 1. Interestingly, the GT players remained focused on their task, seemingly unfazed by the playful antics from the RCB camp.

The Match: RCB Dominates the Titans

While the pre-match atmosphere was defined by humor, the actual game was a masterclass in clinical dominance by Royal Challengers Bengaluru. After losing the toss, RCB were sent in to bat first. Venkatesh Iyer provided a brisk start, but it was Virat Kohli who set the tone with a composed 25-ball 43. However, the innings truly exploded when Rajat Patidar stepped up to the crease.

A Historic Batting Performance

Captain Rajat Patidar delivered a legendary performance, smashing a blitzkrieg 93 off just 33 deliveries. His incredible strike rate of 281 left the Gujarat Titans’ bowling lineup in disarray. Patidar’s aggressive approach propelled RCB past the 250-run mark, setting a new record for the highest score ever recorded in an IPL playoff match. This mammoth total placed immense pressure on the Titans from the very first ball of the second innings.

Bowling Brilliance Ensures Victory

The RCB bowlers capitalized on the momentum provided by their batters. Josh Hazlewood, Jacob Duffy, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar were ruthless, dismantling the GT batting order with surgical precision. The Titans’ collapse was swift; openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan were removed within the first four overs. By the end of the powerplay, GT had already lost five crucial wickets, leaving them in a position from which there was no return.

Although Rahul Tewatia attempted a late resistance with a gritty 68 off 43 balls, the task proved insurmountable. The Gujarat Titans were bundled out in 19.3 overs, handing Royal Challengers Bengaluru a comprehensive 92-run victory. This emphatic win secured RCB’s spot in the IPL 2026 final, marking a night of both entertainment and cricketing excellence in Dharamsala.

Ultimately, the day will be remembered for the contrast between Kohli’s playful spirit and the clinical, professional execution displayed by the RCB squad on the field. It was a perfect blend of the joy that cricket brings and the high-octane excitement that defines the IPL playoffs.