IPL 2022, RCB vs GT: This was for the team, says Virat Kohli

His hard work at the nets has paid off: Mike HessonIt wasn't the vintage Virat Kohli on show on Thursday night at the Wankhede stadium, but the signature focus, intent and hunger to see his team through was on display. After a prolonged dry run with the willow, the former Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper shrugged off the rustiness with an assured 54-ball 73 (8x4, 2x6), an innings which helped RCB get past Gujarat Titans by eight wickets to stay alive in the competition.

Read AlsoIPL 2022, RCB vs GT: Royal Challengers Bangalore beat Gujarat Titans to stay in contention

RCB came into the contest with the sole aim of a win while Kohli walked in to bat to exorcise the demons of a lean patch. He did it in style with a fine 54-ball 73 (8x4; 2x6), his highest score of the season. Chasing 169 for victory, RCB overhauled the target with eight balls to spare with Glenn

With the win Faf du Plessis' men occupy the fourth place on the points table and will need Mumbai Indians to beat Delhi Capitals on Saturday to advance to the playoffs. While the team management would be relieved to see Kohli back among runs, the opener wore his heart on his sleeve as he ticked a few boxes. Speaking at the post-match presentation, Kohli said the innings was for the team. "I was disappointed that I haven't done much for my team and that bothers me, not the stats. This was a game where I was able to create an impact and that puts us in a good position." Kohli added that early in his innings he knew he was in a good space. "I think with the first shot I played off (Mohd) Shami I felt like that (back to be his old self). It was a length ball and I could back myself and hit it over his head. I just felt like I could hit length balls over bowlers' head