Virat Kohli, de Villiers share a nostalgic hug after RCB crash into IPL final

Royal Challengers Bengaluru stormed into the finals of the Indian Premier League 2026 with a commanding 92-run victory over Gujarat Titans in Dharamshala on Tuesday night, underscoring their dominance in the pressure-packed play-off battle. The emphatic win not only sealed their place in a second consecutive final but also sparked emotional scenes involving franchise stalwarts Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers that quickly went viral.

RCB vs GT: Highlights | Comparison table

For the fans at HPCA Stadium and the millions watching online, the defining image came after the final ball when Virat Kohli was seen hugging former teammate and RCB greatt AB de Villiers. The heartfelt embrace between two of the franchise’s most iconic figures immediately set social media ablaze, with supporters calling de Villiers a “good luck charm” and a symbolic presence in their journey back to the top.

The South African legend was also present during RCB’s maiden IPL triumph last season, further fueling the narrative among fans that his association brings good luck to the franchise. Having built one of the most feared partnerships in IPL history, Kohli and de Villiers have once again reminded everyone of their enduring bond. Their union spans years of shared successes, heartbreaks and record-breaking performances that have defined an era for the Bengaluru-based side.

The duo’s legacy includes several memorable stands, most notable being a partnership of 229 runs against Gujarat Lions in 2016 and a whopping 215 runs take on Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede in 2015. Moments like these have long cemented their place in IPL folklore, so their post-match embrace in 2026 feels like the continuation of a story fans never want to end.

Summing up the sentiment on social media, one fan wrote that Kohli and de Villiers’ journey “has seen it all – from tears in 2016 to warm hugs in 2026”, adding that it felt like “17 years in the making”. Another post noted: “AB wasn’t there to lift the trophy with them before, but now he’s here to defend the title.” Fans love Virat and De Villiers warm hug at the end of the game. (Photo: screenshot from X)

RCB DEFEND THE TITLE?

On the field, RCB put on a performance of utter dominance. Captain Rajat Patidar once again led from the front with a breathtaking 33-ball 93 to power the team to a record 254 in 20 overs – the highest total ever recorded in an IPL play-off match. Gujarat Titans had no answer to the onslaught as the RCB bowlers took command in the second innings.

Bowling unit in the lead Bhuvneshwar Kumar ensured there was no turning back Gujarat. Their disciplined attack and sharp execution under the lights at the HPCA stadium wrapped up a comprehensive victory and allowed RCB fans to savor every moment of a near-perfect night in Dharamsala.

With this emphatic win, RCB are now just one win away from becoming only the third franchise in IPL history, after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, to successfully defend the title. The stage is now set for another high-voltage final, with Bengaluru bringing both momentum and emotion to the summit clash.

– The end

Published on:

27 May 2026 01:01 IST