Kohli’s Playful Chin-Pat to Ishan Kishan Steals IPL 2026 Show

The IPL 2026 season got off to a memorable start at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru — and not just for the cricket. Royal Challengers Bangalore locked horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad in the tournament opener, delivering big performances and an off-field moment that quickly captured the internet’s attention.

A Moment That Melted the Internet

During RCB’s run chase, Virat Kohli crossed paths with SRH skipper Ishan Kishan, who was busy directing his fielders. In a gesture typically shared between elders and young children, Kohli affectionately patted Kishan’s chin. Both players broke into sheepish smiles, seemingly caught off guard by the spontaneous exchange. The clip spread rapidly across social media, with fans celebrating the warm camaraderie between the two sides.

Kohli and Kishan Shine with the Bat

The feel-good moment came amid some outstanding individual performances. Ishan Kishan anchored SRH’s innings brilliantly, smashing 80 off just 38 balls to power his side to a competitive 201. However, RCB rose to the challenge emphatically. Despite losing opener Phil Salt early, Devdutt Padikkal steadied the chase at the top before Kohli took centre stage.

Kohli crafted an unbeaten 69 off 38 balls, pacing the chase with trademark composure and finishing the game in style. RCB crossed the line with 6 wickets and more than four balls to spare — a statement win to open their campaign.

The evening proved that IPL 2026 has all the ingredients for a thrilling season, on and off the pitch.