Watch- Devdutt Padikkal Takes Virat Kohli’s Revenge From Jason Holder – Devdutt Padikkal Mimics Jason Holder’s Celebration in RCB Playoff Masterclass

A Night of High Drama at Dharamsala

The IPL 2026 playoffs witnessed one of the most emphatic performances in the tournament’s history as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) dismantled the Gujarat Titans (GT) by 92 runs. While the match was defined by Rajat Patidar’s explosive unbeaten 93 off 33 balls, the social media discourse centered on a fiery subplot involving Virat Kohli, Jason Holder, and an iconic act of retribution by Devdutt Padikkal.

The contest at Dharamsala was high-stakes, but the tension between the players provided an additional layer of intensity that captured the attention of millions of cricket fans worldwide.

The Kohli-Holder Confrontation

Virat Kohli was in brilliant touch, anchoring the RCB innings with a quick-fire 43 off 25 balls. His partnership with Devdutt Padikkal had put the Bengaluru side in a dominant position early on. However, the momentum shifted temporarily when Jason Holder struck in the ninth over. A sharp, short-pitched delivery forced Kohli into an awkward hook shot, resulting in a bottom edge that crashed into the stumps.

It was what happened immediately after the dismissal that ignited the fire. Jason Holder, clearly energized by the breakthrough, celebrated aggressively in front of the legendary batter. He performed an animated, jogging-style run-away gesture, signaling for Kohli to head back to the pavilion. This display of bravado did not go unnoticed by the rest of the RCB squad, who were watching from the dugout.

Padikkal Delivers the Ultimate Reply

If there is an unwritten rule in T20 cricket, it is that excessive celebrations often invite a response. During the second innings, as Gujarat Titans faltered in their pursuit of 255, the opportunity for retaliation arrived. When Rasikh Salam dismissed Jason Holder for a three-ball duck, the RCB players seized the moment.

Devdutt Padikkal, in a stroke of comedic and competitive brilliance, immediately recreated the exact jogging celebration that Holder had performed earlier. Padikkal sprinted toward his teammates, perfectly mimicking the West Indian all-rounder’s earlier antics. The viral moment resonated deeply with fans, who hailed it as the perfect “tit-for-tat” response in one of the most high-pressure matches of the season.

Padikkal’s Vital Role with the Bat

Beyond the viral celebration, Devdutt Padikkal was a cornerstone of RCB’s success. The stylish left-hander contributed a rapid 30 runs off just 19 deliveries, maintaining an aggressive strike rate of 157.89. His ability to find gaps and attack the GT bowling unit during the powerplay ensured that the pressure remained firmly on the opposition throughout his stay at the crease.

Alongside Kohli, Padikkal stitched together a crucial 72-run stand for the second wicket, setting the foundation for Patidar’s late-innings onslaught. While Holder eventually claimed Padikkal’s wicket, the damage was already done, and the foundation for a record-breaking total had been firmly laid.

A Dominant Path to the Final

RCB’s bowling unit matched the intensity of their batters, ensuring that the Gujarat Titans never gained a foothold in the chase. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jacob Duffy dismantled the top order, while Rasikh Salam’s brilliant spell effectively ended any hope of a GT recovery. The Titans were eventually bowled out for 162, securing RCB’s spot in the IPL 2026 Final.

This performance was a statement of intent from the Bengaluru side. By blending ruthless efficiency with the competitive spirit that cricket fans love, RCB have cemented their position as the team to beat in this year’s playoffs. As the focus shifts to the final, the team will look to carry this momentum forward, knowing they have the talent and the character to go all the way.