New Delhi: Shyam Sunder Sharma, director for the Delhi and District Cricket Association, issued a staunch defence of Virat Kohli while offering a sharp critique of the Delhi Capitals’ volatile form following their comprehensive defeat by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

The Capitals suffered a lopsided loss Monday night at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, a result that prompted Sharma to suggest the franchise’s struggles transcend mere athletics. Speaking to ANI, Sharma noted the team’s inability to find consistency regardless of their total.

"When Delhi scores 265, they end up losing. When they fail to reach even 100... their stars are not aligned. They need to get some rituals or prayers done to secure a victory," Sharma remarked.

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The Kohli Phenomenon

The DDCA official dismissed narratives suggesting that the 37-year-old Kohli is nearing the end of his career. Sharma claimed the veteran remains the preeminent figure in the sport, both in talent and global appeal.

"For those who say Virat is 'finished', he is going to be playing for at least another five years. He is the 'Bindas Badshah, Betaaj Badshah," Sharma said.

He further asserted that Kohli’s place in cricket history is unique. "There has never been a greater player than him. It is only out of humility that he refers to others as seniors. In reality, there is no player greater. Just look at the magnitude of his fan following," Sharma added.

Sharma also highlighted the unprecedented public interest in the contest, noting, "In my 40 years of experience, I have never witnessed such pressure regarding match tickets as I did for this game."

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Milestones and Match Highlights

The fixture served as a homecoming for Kohli, who reached the historic milestone of 9,000 career runs in the Indian Premier League at the stadium where his professional journey began. He punctuated the victory with two consecutive sixes, finishing unbeaten with 25 runs off 13 deliveries.

The match itself was dominated by the defending champions after they elected to bowl first. RCB’s pace attack, led by Josh Hazlewood’s 4-12 and Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s 3-5, dismantled the Delhi lineup for a mere 75 runs in 16.3 overs. Abishek Porel and David Miller provided the only significant resistance for the hosts.

The chase was a swift affair, as RCB’s top order attacked from the outset. Jacob Bethell and Devdutt Padikkal joined Kohli in an aggressive pursuit that saw the target reached in just 6.3 overs.

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Tournament Standings

The victory cements Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s position near the top of the table, marking their sixth win in eight appearances. With 12 points, they currently occupy the second spot in the league standings.

In contrast, the Delhi Capitals remain in seventh place. The defeat was their fifth of the 2026 season, leaving them with a record of three wins and five losses as the tournament progresses.

With inputs from ANI