Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir dubbed Indian batsman Virat Kohli the “Only Real King” after the latter produced a magnificent century during the present Indian Premier League (IPL) on Thursday.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad by eight wickets, keeping the former in contention for a playoff spot.
The prolific right-hander also tied Chris Gayle’s tournament record with his sixth century, 100 runs in 63 balls.
Heinrich Klassen also struck 104 off 51 balls, marking the first occasion in IPL history where a batsman from both teams reached a century.
“What an innings by the one and only the real king @imVkohli, take a bow,” Amir tweeted.
Bangalore now controls its own destiny in the race to the playoffs, moving up to the fourth and final qualifying spot.
They are equal for 14 points with the Mumbai Indians, but have a better net run rate with one game remaining – a home game against the table-topping Gujarat Titans on Sunday.
“My intention from ball one was to go after the bowlers,” Kohli explained. “There was a dip, but I wanted to get back on track.” I’m glad everything came together so well.
“I’m on the pitch myself, and I think it resonates with the people.” It’s great to watch people smile when I perform.”
The IPL clubs have now each played 13 games, with the final round of league matches beginning on Friday.
Gujarat will finish first with 18 points. With 15 points each, Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants are the favorites to grab two of the remaining qualification positions, but Bangalore may take second place if they beat Gujarat and other outcomes go their way.
The Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Punjab Kings are all on 12 points and have just mathematical hopes of making the playoffs.
