These are the two most important points in the last three years for us: Kohli

Virat led RCB to a thrilling win last night

Virat Kohli seems like someone who wouldn’t forget the past easily as he remembers the Hyderabad franchise ruining RCB’s party in 2012 and again in 2013. And hence, last night’s victory was far more sweeter as he hailed it as ‘the two most important points in the last three years’ for his side.

"These are the two most important points in the last three years for us. Hyderabad is the team that have cost us dearly in 2012 and 2013," Kohli said. "This victory feels really satisfying because we needed these two points. To be able to do it in a shortened game again… this is the fourth game we have played that has been hit by rain. The last one hurt in Mohali as we just had to rush onto the field, (but we) got a bit of time for this one to prepare."

Kohli was particularly pleased that his team managed to pull through despite losing Gayle and de Villiers off successive deliveries. "It was pretty tough when Gayle and AB got out back-to-back balls. It is always a tough pill to swallow when Chris and AB get out chasing 13-14 an over. Eventually you just have to relax yourself, take a deep breath and get back to work. There is nothing you can do about that. I just decided to play percentage shots, pick my areas, keep a strong base, choose the balls that are to be hit and run quick because the field was big, so put pressure on running those twos as well.

"It was a mixed bag of thoughts (before the chase started). Someone said if it rained for 15 more minutes, there won't be any game left and we would get one point. The other side of me said 'Okay, fine, if we have to go out there and fight it out so be it'. To take the team across the line is a special feeling. This is what a cricketer craves. These sort of moments remain special in your career and you remember them for a long time. I am glad we went out there and we got the right result."

On David Warner’s misjudgement:

"I never thought I could see that far because I wear contacts on the field, but that one I clearly saw. That compression in foam is something that will be very special in my memory. I knew instantly that he stepped on it. I saw his body language as well. That is a tough one. He is a great fielder - one of the best in the world. Sometimes in pressure situations, even the best can falter, can drop catches as well. I feel for him but getting those two points feels very, very good."

RCB will now play their last game against the Delhi Daredevils at home on Sunday knowing that a win would seal a top-two finish.