Why did Virat Kohli not field during MI vs RCB game at Wankhede?

Published - 12 Apr 2026, 22:43 IST | Updated - 12 Apr 2026, 23:27 IST

Virat Kohli had a special night out at the Wankhede Stadium when the Royal Challengers Bengaluru were hosted by the Mumbai Indians for Match 20 of IPL 2026 at the iconic venue. Courtesy of Kohli's 50 off 37 balls, RCB were able to post a daunting total of 240-5 on the board in the first innings. However, when it came to defend the target, RCB entered the field with huge confidence, but without Kohli being seen in the field.

Later in the match, camera visuals confirmed that Kohli indeed did not come out to field and Jacob Bethell took the field instead. However, Kohli did not sit out after being subbed off as an impact substitute. In fact, the real reason regarding the star cricketer not opting to come out to show his acrobatics in the field was due to a possible ankle injury. The injury does not look severe, though, and Kohli is expected to be back for the upcoming match.

Speaking more of Kohli's knock, the talismanic batter looked in utmost comfort at the crease till the time of his stay at the crease. After accomplishing the 50-run mark, it took Virat only one ball to get dismissed as he holed one out to long on off a Hardik Pandya delivery, as RCB lost an important wicket just as the star batter was looking to convert his knock into a big one for the defending champions.

WATCH: Virat Kohli throws helmet in angst upon wicket

Nonetheless, the finishing touches added by Tim David and Jitesh Sharma were enough for RCB to set up an above-par total at the Wankhede surface.

In reply, Mumbai started well but lost the plot in the middle when they lost a few wickets in quick succession. To add salt to their wounds, Rohit Sharma, who was well set at the crease, had to leave midway, getting retired hurt due to a cramp or a pull in his left hamstring. Eventually, RCB won the match quite comfortably.