Ishan Kishan says it is hard to stop Virat Kohli after loss against RCB in IPL 2026

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s interim captain Ishan Kishan admitted it is hard to put the brakes on Virat Kohli in a run-chase if he gets going. Chasing 202 runs for the win against SRH, RCB veteran scored a majestic knock of 69 runs off just 38 balls at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru on Saturday. 

Kohli added 101 runs off just 45 balls with Devdutt Padikkal, who scored a brilliant knock of 61 runs off just 26 balls. The experienced right-hander scored five fours and as many sixes in his match-winning knock.

Meanwhile, SRH was put under the cosh after they lost three early wickets and were left reeling at 29-3. Kishan reckons the pitch played better after the first four overs.

Ishan Kishan said in the post-match presentation, “I think definitely the wicket played well after the first 3-4 overs. You know, we lost a few early wickets, and we have to take care of that maybe next time because, looking at the wicket in the second innings, it was pretty much easier to bat on and the ball was coming on quite well. So yeah, we’ll have to be a little smart with the shot selection next time. But yeah, we did well after losing track, which gives a lot of confidence to us. You know, especially you have to give some credit to the batters as well, the way they batted, especially Virat Bhai while chasing. It’s very important to get his wicket as soon as possible. Otherwise, if he keeps on going, it’s hard to stop him.”

The left-handed batter admitted they need to work a little harder and come back stronger with the ball.

He concluded, “We’ll have to work a little hard. It’s the first game and these mistakes are acceptable for now. We’ll be a little more cautious with the bowling, areas where we need to execute, and we might be stronger from the next game. I actually enjoyed it a lot, you know, enjoyed every moment of it. It’s IPL, so sometimes nerves are there. But we’ll get better with this as a team. What else can I say about the captaincy? If we win the games coming ahead, it will be much easier for us going ahead in the tournament.”

Sunrisers Hyderabad will next take on Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on Thursday.