‘If Anyone Can Challenge Virat Kohli…’ – Irfan Pathan Hails Former RCB Captain After Historic 9,000 IPL Runs

Virat Kohli added another major mark to an already dominant IPL record, becoming the first batter to score more than 9,000 runs in the league. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru batter reached the landmark during a successful chase, underlining both long-term fitness and sustained impact in T20 cricket.

The milestone came in a winning cause for RCB, whose batting unit closed out the run chase without strain. Kohli finished the innings not out and ended the contest with two successive sixes, showing control under pressure while keeping the focus fixed on securing victory for the team.

Virat Kohli Scores 9,000 IPL Runs

Kohli's IPL numbers now reflect steady scoring rather than a few standout seasons. The tally of more than 9,000 runs has been built with a strong average and reliable strike rate, backed by eight centuries and many half-centuries, highlighting adaptability to different match conditions and bowling attacks.

The historic runs arrived at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, a venue closely linked with several important moments in Kohli's career. The setting added emotional weight to the achievement, yet the innings itself remained measured. Kohli balanced caution with calculated aggression, guiding the chase and avoiding risky strokes until the result was secure.

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This season, Kohli stays firmly in the Orange Cap conversation. The batting approach has mixed fluency with control, allowing quick scoring without reckless shots. That balance has helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru maintain momentum, with the top order offering steady platforms and reducing pressure on the middle order in most matches.

The game against Delhi Capitals underlined RCB's overall strength. The bowlers struck early and often, breaking the top order and limiting scoring options. That disciplined effort produced a modest target, which the batters then chased with positive intent. Early boundaries removed any tension and kept the asking rate manageable throughout.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan praised Kohli's standards on X, writing, "If anyone can challenge Virat Kohli, it's none other than Virat Kohli himself. That's why in the IPL, this 9000-run Mount Everest is just a stepping stone for him, not the destination." Pathan's comment captured the broader belief that Kohli sets personal benchmarks.

With six wins in eight matches, RCB look like strong challengers this season, and Kohli remains central to that push. The latest landmark strengthens an already extensive legacy, yet the performances suggest the focus is still on team success and on reaching levels that, as Pathan noted, few others can even target.