<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have finally ended their 18-year-long trophy drought by<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rcb-beat-pbks-by-6-runs-in-final-to-win-first-ipl-title-in-18-years-1748972749650"> defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a thriller by six runs</a> on Tuesday (June 3) in Ahmedabad. The Rajat Patidar-led side finally touched the glory after nearly missing out in 2009, 2011 and 2016 seasons.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After lifting the IPL trophy, the holy trinity of RCB, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle were seen saying to the broadcasters, 'Ee Sala Cup Namdu'.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>RCB fans were heard chanting this slogan after RCB's maiden IPL triumph. Social media was flooded with this Kannada slogan. At the post-match presentation, RCB skipper Rajat Patidar said, "He has a message for RCB fans. Ee Sala Cup Namdu’'.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-name-squad-for-west-indies-t20i-series-starting-july-21-mitchell-marsh-to-lead-key-stars-to-miss-out-1749019266718"><strong>Australia name Marsh-led squad for West Indies T20I series starting July 2, three BIG players miss out</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What does Ee Sala Cup Namdu mean?</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The phrase ‘Ee Sala Cup Namdu’ comes from Kannada, the main language spoken in Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka. In English, it means “This year, the cup is ours.” It’s an upgrade from the earlier version, ‘Ee Sala Cup Namde’, which meant “This year, the cup will be ours.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Over the years RCB fans were trolled for Ee Sala Cup Namde. RCB had come always so close to the silverware but they were always yet so far. To raise the confidence of the team in IPL 2018, an unofficial slogan was launched by local Kannada-speaking fans of RCB.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This slogan was “Ee Sala Cup Namde” which “this year cup the cup is ours” was coined to push RCB for their maiden IPL title.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="qme" dir="ltr">♥️ 🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> <a href="https://t.co/lNG8bxEtJ2">pic.twitter.com/lNG8bxEtJ2</a></p>&mdash; AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17/status/1929989072895754371?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>RCB lifts their maiden IPL title</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After 17 years of failure, hard work and consistent determination RCB finally were crowned the IPL champions. At the tricky surface in Ahmedabad, RCB posted an under-par score of 190/9. However, RCB bowlers, especially Krunal Pandya turned the game in RCB's favour after delivering a phenomenal spell of 2/17. Shashank Singh was the lone warrior for Punjab Kings (PBKS) scoring an unbeaten 61 off 30 deliveries.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

After lifting the IPL trophy, the holy trinity of RCB, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle were seen saying to the broadcasters, 'Ee Sala Cup Namdu'.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have finally ended their 18-year-long trophy drought by defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a thriller by six runs on Tuesday (June 3) in Ahmedabad. The Rajat Patidar-led side finally touched the glory after nearly missing out in 2009, 2011 and 2016 seasons. After lifting the IPL trophy, the holy trinity of RCB, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle were seen saying to the broadcasters, 'Ee Sala Cup Namdu'. RCB fans were heard chanting this slogan after RCB's maiden IPL triumph. Social media was flooded with this Kannada slogan. At the post-match presentation, RCB skipper Rajat Patidar said, "He has a message for RCB fans. Ee Sala Cup Namdu’'. Also Read | Australia name Marsh-led squad for West Indies T20I series starting July 2, three BIG players miss out What does Ee Sala Cup Namdu mean? The phrase ‘Ee Sala Cup Namdu’ comes from Kannada, the main language spoken in Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka. In English, it means “This year, the cup is ours.” It’s an upgrade from the earlier version, ‘Ee Sala Cup Namde’, which meant “This year, the cup will be ours.” Over the years RCB fans were trolled for Ee Sala Cup Namde. RCB had come always so close to the silverware but they were always yet so far. To raise the confidence of the team in IPL 2018, an unofficial slogan was launched by local Kannada-speaking fans of RCB. This slogan was “Ee Sala Cup Namde” which “this year cup the cup is ours” was coined to push RCB for their maiden IPL title.

<p>After lifting the IPL trophy, the holy trinity of RCB, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle were seen saying to the broadcasters, 'Ee Sala Cup Namdu'.</p>

What does 'Ee Sala Cup Namdu’ mean? Know why it matters to IPL 2025 champions RCB

<p>Virat Kohli finally managed to get his hands on IPL trophy after 18 long years as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2025 season final on Tuesday (June 3). RCB had posted a below par 190 but PBKS fumbled in the chase during the middle over and lost the title showdown by just six runs.</p><p>Kohli was emotionally visible after the win and fought back welling up at the occasion which eluded him for nearly two decades. Reacting to the win, Kohli posted an emotional tribute on Instagram and here's what he wrote:.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-this-moment-is-right-up-there-but-five-levels-below-test-cricket-kohli-after-winning-ipl-1748977437514">IPL 2025: Virat Kohli reflects after lifting maiden title as RCB beat Punjab Kings by six runs in final</a></p><p>"This team made the dream possible , a season I’ll never ever forget. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed the ride over the last 2.5 months. This one is for the fans of RCB who never ever left our side in the worst of times. This one is for all the years of heartbreaks and disappointment. This is for every inch of effort left on the field playing for this team. As far as the ipl trophy is concerned- you’ve made me wait 18 years to be able to lift you and celebrate my friend, but it’s been absolutely worth the wait."</p><p>Kohli is the only person to have played for the same franchise since the inception of the league in 2008 but hadn't won it before June 3.</p><p>The batter, who is no longer the skipper of the side, did play his part with the bat and ended up as RCB's highest scorer of the season including the final. Kohli's 657 runs are the third most in IPL 2025 behind MI's Suryakumar Yadav (717) and GT's Sai Sudharsan (759). In the final, Kohli top scored with 43 for Bengaluru.</p><p>This was RCB's fourth IPL final and first in nine years. As for Punjab, they have only been in the final twice including this one and have lost on both occasions.&nbsp;</p>

Kohli was emotionally visible after the win and fought back welling up at the occasion which eluded him for nearly two decades. Reacting to the win, Kohli posted an emotional tribute on Instagram.

Virat Kohli finally managed to get his hands on IPL trophy after 18 long years as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2025 season final on Tuesday (June 3). RCB had posted a below par 190 but PBKS fumbled in the chase during the middle over and lost the title showdown by just six runs. Kohli was emotionally visible after the win and fought back welling up at the occasion which eluded him for nearly two decades. Reacting to the win, Kohli posted an emotional tribute on Instagram and here's what he wrote:. Also Read - IPL 2025: Virat Kohli reflects after lifting maiden title as RCB beat Punjab Kings by six runs in final "This team made the dream possible , a season I’ll never ever forget. We’ve thoroughly enjoyed the ride over the last 2.5 months. This one is for the fans of RCB who never ever left our side in the worst of times. This one is for all the years of heartbreaks and disappointment. This is for every inch of effort left on the field playing for this team. As far as the ipl trophy is concerned- you’ve made me wait 18 years to be able to lift you and celebrate my friend, but it’s been absolutely worth the wait." Kohli is the only person to have played for the same franchise since the inception of the league in 2008 but hadn't won it before June 3. The batter, who is no longer the skipper of the side, did play his part with the bat and ended up as RCB's highest scorer of the season including the final. Kohli's 657 runs are the third most in IPL 2025 behind MI's Suryakumar Yadav (717) and GT's Sai Sudharsan (759). In the final, Kohli top scored with 43 for Bengaluru. This was RCB's fourth IPL final and first in nine years. As for Punjab, they have only been in the final twice including this one and have lost on both occasions.

<p>Kohli was emotionally visible after the win and fought back welling up at the occasion which eluded him for nearly two decades. Reacting to the win, Kohli posted an emotional tribute on Instagram.</p>

'For all the years of heartbreaks and disappointment': Kohli's emotional post after winning maiden IPL title melts down internet

<p>What a night it was! Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) won their maiden IPL title after a long wait of 18 years. &nbsp;On Tuesday (June 3), Indian star Virat Kohli finally lifted the IPL trophy with his entire team, and it was a moment that the Indian cricketer and the fans of the IPL team had waited for more than a decade.<br><br>After a thrilling match, RCB defeated the Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, India.<br><br><strong>RCB win IPL 2025: Ranveer Singh, Allu Arjun celebrate Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s win</strong><br><br>Since the Rajat Patidar-led RCB has clinched the trophy, celebrations are going on across the country with fans going gaga. Many Indian celebrities, including &nbsp;Ranveer Singh, Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Ajay Devgn, and Kartik Aaryan, have also reacted to the big win. Check some of the reactions below:<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Vicky Kaushal shared a photo of Virat and the entire team celebrating their win. Sharing the pictures on his Instagram stories, he wrote, “To the man who's given everything to the sport... this was long due! Virat Kohli.”&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Screengrab of Vicky Kaushal's Instagram

<p>Ranveer Singh shared a photo of Kohli's emotional moment from yesterday's match. Singh called Kohli a “one club player” along with a crown emoji.</p>

Screengrab of Ranveer Singh's Instagram story

<p>Sharing a picture of RCB players from yesterday's match, Allu Arjun wrote, “THE WAIT IS OVER. ‘Ee sala cup namde!' At last! We've been waiting for this day for 18 years. A big, big congratulations to RCB!”<br><br>The Pushpa actor also shared a video of his son Ayaan, who was overjoyed after RCB's win.</p>

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<p>Rashmika Mandanna also shared a photo of an RCB player on her Instagram story and wrote, ''It smells like victory in here'' followed by a red heart emoji.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Kartik Aaryan also shared a video of Kohli on Instagram stories and wrote, “Finally Jersey No 18, after 18 years. Congratulations GOAT Virat Kohli.”<br>&nbsp;</p>

Screengrab of Kartik Aryan's Instagram stories

<p>Actor Sunil Shetty shared a heartfelt video of Virat and Anushka after RCB won the match. The celebrity couple marked the win with a tight hug and sweet kisses. Sharing the clip, Shetty wrote, ''18 years. Countless runs. Infinite belief. And… destiny finally wore Red. VIRAT KOHLI — the man who gave IPL its fiercest roar — finally lifts the trophy he’s chased with heart, fire and soul. This isn’t just a win. It’s a love story sealed with glory.''</p>

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Virat Kohli, the GOAT! Ranveer Singh, Allu Arjun, and other stars celebrate Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s victory

What a night it was! Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) won their maiden IPL title after a long wait of 18 years. On Tuesday (June 3), Indian star Virat Kohli finally lifted the IPL trophy with his entire team, and it was a moment that the Indian cricketer and the fans of the IPL team had waited for more than a decade. After a thrilling match, RCB defeated the Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, India. RCB win IPL 2025: Ranveer Singh, Allu Arjun celebrate Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s win Since the Rajat Patidar-led RCB has clinched the trophy, celebrations are going on across the country with fans going gaga. Many Indian celebrities, including Ranveer Singh, Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Ajay Devgn, and Kartik Aaryan, have also reacted to the big win. Check some of the reactions below: Vicky Kaushal shared a photo of Virat and the entire team celebrating their win. Sharing the pictures on his Instagram stories, he wrote, “To the man who's given everything to the sport... this was long due! Virat Kohli.”

<p>Since the Rajat Patidar-led RCB has clinched the trophy, celebrations are going on across the country with fans going gaga. Many Indian celebrities, including &nbsp;Ranveer Singh, Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Ajay Devgn, and Kartik Aaryan, have also reacted to the big win</p>

<p>In a tournament built on drama and dreams, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 delivered its most emotional finale yet. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally lifted the coveted trophy. After 18 seasons of heartbreak, near-glory, and undying hope, the wait ended and at the centre of it all was Virat Kohli, the man who has poured his soul, sweat, and spirit into the red and gold.</p><p>Only weeks ago, Kohli had stunned the cricketing world with his retirement from Test cricket, a move that marked the end of an era. Kohli had achieved it all on the cricketing field, but there was always a hitch, one lingering sorrow. But that's no more. Tuesday night delivered a beautiful victory for all the King's fans. For 18 seasons, the IPL trophy evaded Virat Kohli. It has dodged his determination, outlasted his passion, and refused to bend to his will.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-we-have-to-be-here-and-win-the-trophy-next-year-says-pbks-skipper-shreyas-iyer-1748979897617">IPL 2025 | ‘We have to be here and win the trophy next year’, says PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer</a></p><p>RCB, long defined by flair without finish, found balance and brilliance this season. They finally became more than a collection of stars. The RCB innings started with Kohli playing cautiously, a very unlike Kohli, the murmurs grew louder in drawing rooms and even the commentators questioned Kohli's tactics. But in the end Kohli's 43 of 35 balls proved to be the right approach to lay the foundation of RCB's total.</p><p>With 190 to chase Punjab Kings had a brisk start. Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh gave the Kings a good start. Next came Josh Inglis who set the Ahmedabad stadium on fire with four sixes. But Krunal Pandya produced another beauty to claim Inglish after Singh. All eyes were set on the PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer, but he lasted only two balls. &nbsp;After that, the match went RCB's way. It was the raw courage of Shashank Singh who tried to defy the inevitable, he struck six sixes in his scintillating innings of 61 runs of only 30 balls. Punjab came just six runs short but walked away with pride.</p><p>RCB fans, who waited with aching hearts and painted faces for nearly two decades, could hardly breathe. The agony of 2016, the collapses, the eliminations all haunted this night. But as the final over arrived, all that stood between RCB and destiny was Punjab’s fearless fight.</p><p>Then, it happened.</p><p>As the final ball was bowled and the last Punjab hope vanished into the night, Virat Kohli dropped to his knees. No roar. No leap. Just stillness. Head bowed, eyes closed. Eighteen years of carrying a city’s hope flowed into the earth beneath him. Not just the Narendra Modi Stadium the entire country erupted. Firecrackers lit the sky from Kolkata to Delhi, from Mumbai to Bengaluru. This wasn’t just RCB’s win. It was India’s collective victory. Every cricket fan erupts in euphoria as the King has got the only trophy eluding his cabinet.</p><p>In the post-match presentation, Kohli said, “I’ve given my youth to this team. And tonight, it gave something priceless back.” He also reminded youngsters, “IPL is beautiful, but never forget Test cricket; that’s where real character is built.”</p><p>After clinching victory and thanking his teammates, Kohli ran towards his lady love, Anushka Sharma, his strength and calm. The one who saw the struggle behind the smiles. The one who always believed.</p><p>And now, Bengaluru believes too.<br>The drought is over.<br>The dream, fulfilled.<br>RCB champions at last.<br>"Ee Sala Cup Namde" (This year, the cup is ours) The vow has been fulfilled.</p>

Only weeks ago, Kohli had stunned the cricketing world with his retirement from Test cricket, a move that marked the end of an era. Kohli had achieved it all on the cricketing field, but there was always a hitch, one lingering sorrow. But that's no more.

In a tournament built on drama and dreams, the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 delivered its most emotional finale yet. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally lifted the coveted trophy. After 18 seasons of heartbreak, near-glory, and undying hope, the wait ended and at the centre of it all was Virat Kohli, the man who has poured his soul, sweat, and spirit into the red and gold. Only weeks ago, Kohli had stunned the cricketing world with his retirement from Test cricket, a move that marked the end of an era. Kohli had achieved it all on the cricketing field, but there was always a hitch, one lingering sorrow. But that's no more. Tuesday night delivered a beautiful victory for all the King's fans. For 18 seasons, the IPL trophy evaded Virat Kohli. It has dodged his determination, outlasted his passion, and refused to bend to his will. Also Read - IPL 2025 | ‘We have to be here and win the trophy next year’, says PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer RCB, long defined by flair without finish, found balance and brilliance this season. They finally became more than a collection of stars. The RCB innings started with Kohli playing cautiously, a very unlike Kohli, the murmurs grew louder in drawing rooms and even the commentators questioned Kohli's tactics. But in the end Kohli's 43 of 35 balls proved to be the right approach to lay the foundation of RCB's total. With 190 to chase Punjab Kings had a brisk start. Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh gave the Kings a good start. Next came Josh Inglis who set the Ahmedabad stadium on fire with four sixes. But Krunal Pandya produced another beauty to claim Inglish after Singh. All eyes were set on the PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer, but he lasted only two balls. After that, the match went RCB's way. It was the raw courage of Shashank Singh who tried to defy the inevitable, he struck six sixes in his scintillating innings of 61 runs of only 30 balls. Punjab came just six runs short but walked away with pride. RCB fans, who waited with aching hearts and painted faces for nearly two decades, could hardly breathe. The agony of 2016, the collapses, the eliminations all haunted this night. But as the final over arrived, all that stood between RCB and destiny was Punjab’s fearless fight. Then, it happened. As the final ball was bowled and the last Punjab hope vanished into the night, Virat Kohli dropped to his knees. No roar. No leap. Just stillness. Head bowed, eyes closed. Eighteen years of carrying a city’s hope flowed into the earth beneath him. Not just the Narendra Modi Stadium the entire country erupted. Firecrackers lit the sky from Kolkata to Delhi, from Mumbai to Bengaluru. This wasn’t just RCB’s win. It was India’s collective victory. Every cricket fan erupts in euphoria as the King has got the only trophy eluding his cabinet. In the post-match presentation, Kohli said, “I’ve given my youth to this team. And tonight, it gave something priceless back.” He also reminded youngsters, “IPL is beautiful, but never forget Test cricket; that’s where real character is built.” After clinching victory and thanking his teammates, Kohli ran towards his lady love, Anushka Sharma, his strength and calm. The one who saw the struggle behind the smiles. The one who always believed. And now, Bengaluru believes too. The drought is over. The dream, fulfilled. RCB champions at last. "Ee Sala Cup Namde" (This year, the cup is ours) The vow has been fulfilled.

<p>Only weeks ago, Kohli had stunned the cricketing world with his retirement from Test cricket, a move that marked the end of an era. Kohli had achieved it all on the cricketing field, but there was always a hitch, one lingering sorrow. But that's no more.</p>

The wait is over. King Kohli's legacy, sealed. RCB: Champions, IPL 2025

<p>His eyes melted everyone hearts, he fell to the ground in tears of happiness just after Josh Hazlewood had bowled the last ball of the 20th over.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“This win is as much for the fans as it is for the team,” Kohli was quoted saying to the broadcasters. “It’s been 18 long years. I’ve given this team my youth, my prime, my experience. Every single season, I’ve walked out with a heart full of hope and a mind obsessed with victory. To finally have this moment… it’s beyond belief.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I never thought this day would come. I was overcome with emotion the moment that last delivery was bowled. I had nothing left in me — every ounce of energy, every drop of sweat, I gave it to this cause. And tonight, it all came back full circle," he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In Ahmedabad, as RCB lifted its first IPL title, a former RCB legend AB de Villiers was seen hugging Kohli after the win was sealed.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“What ABD has done for the franchise is tremendous, told him ‘this is as much yours as it is ours’. He’s been the POTM most times in the franchise despite being retired for four years. He deserves to be on the podium, lifting the cup,” said Kohli.</p><p><br>Virat also applauded the RCB team and management for ending the team’s 18-year-old wait for an IPL title.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“This management, this group of players has been outstanding. They’ve gotten the right kind of players, match winners, people who take the game on. In the auction, a lot of people questioned our tactics. But by day two, we were very happy with what we had. And we had a lot of confidence in the strength of this group."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I want to give a big shout out to this team. It would not have been possible without each and every one in the squad, in the playing XI, the management backing the players, keeping us positive throughout when the going got tough,” Kohli signed off.</p>

IPL 2025 | Given this team my youth, prime and experience, never thought this day would come: Kohli

His eyes melted everyone hearts, he fell to the ground in tears of happiness just after Josh Hazlewood had bowled the last ball of the 20th over. “This win is as much for the fans as it is for the team,” Kohli was quoted saying to the broadcasters. “It’s been 18 long years. I’ve given this team my youth, my prime, my experience. Every single season, I’ve walked out with a heart full of hope and a mind obsessed with victory. To finally have this moment… it’s beyond belief.” “I never thought this day would come. I was overcome with emotion the moment that last delivery was bowled. I had nothing left in me — every ounce of energy, every drop of sweat, I gave it to this cause. And tonight, it all came back full circle," he added. In Ahmedabad, as RCB lifted its first IPL title, a former RCB legend AB de Villiers was seen hugging Kohli after the win was sealed. “What ABD has done for the franchise is tremendous, told him ‘this is as much yours as it is ours’. He’s been the POTM most times in the franchise despite being retired for four years. He deserves to be on the podium, lifting the cup,” said Kohli. Virat also applauded the RCB team and management for ending the team’s 18-year-old wait for an IPL title. “This management, this group of players has been outstanding. They’ve gotten the right kind of players, match winners, people who take the game on. In the auction, a lot of people questioned our tactics. But by day two, we were very happy with what we had. And we had a lot of confidence in the strength of this group." "I want to give a big shout out to this team. It would not have been possible without each and every one in the squad, in the playing XI, the management backing the players, keeping us positive throughout when the going got tough,” Kohli signed off.

<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru beat Punjab Kings by six runs to lift the IPL trophy</p>

IPL 2025 | Given this team my youth, prime and experience, never thought this day would come: Virat Kohli

<p>Nearly after a month Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, he remains the biggest ambassador of Test cricket.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While he has achieved more in white-ball formats, the white jersey will always hold a special place in his heart.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Having retired from the longest format of the game last month, he still lauded Test cricket as the pinnacle of cricket, and that too after winning the Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Having finally lifted that elusive trophy, Kohli fell to the ground with tears in his eyes. He couldn’t control his emotions, having been waiting for this moment for 18 years. But when the time came to talk about it all, Kohli talked about Test cricket as much as he did about winning an IPL trophy for RCB.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“You know, this moment is right up there with the best moments I’ve had in my career. But it still marks five levels under Test cricket. That’s how much I value Test cricket. And that’s how much I love Test cricket. So I would just urge the youngsters coming through to treat that format with respect,” Kohli said after winning the IPL 2025 trophy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kohli always walked the talk. Apart from an injury or personal reason, he never missed a Test match. Under him, India became the best they have ever been in the format. A four-man pace attack developed under him and he won five Test matches. Kohli still thinks you can win IPL or the World Cup but it’ll be your accolades in Test cricket that will ultimately earn you the respect.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Because if you perform in Test cricket, you walk around anywhere in the world, people look you in the eye, shake your hand, and say, well done, you played the game really well. So if you want to earn respect in world cricket all over, take up Test cricket and give your heart and soul to it. And when you walk out with wonders on the other side, then you gain respect in the cricket world with legends like yourself. Melting our hearts on the field and off the field,” he signed off.</p>

IPL 2025 | This moment is right up there but five levels below Test cricket: Kohli after winning IPL

Nearly after a month Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, he remains the biggest ambassador of Test cricket. While he has achieved more in white-ball formats, the white jersey will always hold a special place in his heart. Having retired from the longest format of the game last month, he still lauded Test cricket as the pinnacle of cricket, and that too after winning the Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Having finally lifted that elusive trophy, Kohli fell to the ground with tears in his eyes. He couldn’t control his emotions, having been waiting for this moment for 18 years. But when the time came to talk about it all, Kohli talked about Test cricket as much as he did about winning an IPL trophy for RCB. “You know, this moment is right up there with the best moments I’ve had in my career. But it still marks five levels under Test cricket. That’s how much I value Test cricket. And that’s how much I love Test cricket. So I would just urge the youngsters coming through to treat that format with respect,” Kohli said after winning the IPL 2025 trophy. Kohli always walked the talk. Apart from an injury or personal reason, he never missed a Test match. Under him, India became the best they have ever been in the format. A four-man pace attack developed under him and he won five Test matches. Kohli still thinks you can win IPL or the World Cup but it’ll be your accolades in Test cricket that will ultimately earn you the respect. “Because if you perform in Test cricket, you walk around anywhere in the world, people look you in the eye, shake your hand, and say, well done, you played the game really well. So if you want to earn respect in world cricket all over, take up Test cricket and give your heart and soul to it. And when you walk out with wonders on the other side, then you gain respect in the cricket world with legends like yourself. Melting our hearts on the field and off the field,” he signed off.

<p>Having announced his retirement from Test cricket last month, Kohli was ecstatic but said nothing is more satisfying than excelling in the traditional format</p>

IPL 2025: Virat Kohli reflects after lifting maiden title as RCB beat Punjab Kings by six runs in final

<p>As Shashank Singh hit the last ball of the innings for a six, Virat Kohli was visibly emotional and in tears.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The inevitable had happened. As the final ball sailed over the boundary line, Kohli fell to the ground in tears as his teammates ran and celebrated with him.&nbsp;His wife and Bollywood actor Anushka Sharma was in disbelief as well.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">VIRAT KOHLI IN TEARS - THE DREAM MOMENT FOR THE GOAT ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/jPxUsccRUL">pic.twitter.com/jPxUsccRUL</a></p>&mdash; Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1929961458659479740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Coming to the match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs in the IPL 2025 Final on Tuesday (June 3) to finally win their maiden trophy. It took RCB 18 seasons to get their hands on the IPL trophy and they won it with some style at Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Chasing 191, PBKS started well and added 43 runs for the first wicket before a sensational catch by Phil Salt sent back dangerous Priyansh Arya back for 24. PBKS finished the powerplay at 52/1 as Prabhsimran Singh and Josh Inglis continued to attack.</p><p><br>The duo added 29 runs in short time before Krunal Pandya dismissed Singh for 26. Skipper Shreyas Iyer was caught out seven balls later as Punjab's innings lost the momentum. With Inglis taken out by Pandya on the first ball of 13th over, PBKS slumped to 98/4, still 93 runs away from the target.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh added 38 runs for the fifth wicket to gain some steam but Bhuvneshwar Kumar took two wickets in three balls to effectively close the door on PBKS.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Needing 47 runs in last three overs, Yash Dayal dismissed Azmatullah Omarzai and Shashank was left to much to do on his own. PBKS eventually managed 184/7 in 20 overs and still remain title less. Shashank remained not out on 61 off 30 balls but it was not enough in the end.</p>

IPL 2025: Virat Kohli in tears as RCB lift maiden IPL title

As Shashank Singh hit the last ball of the innings for a six, Virat Kohli was visibly emotional and in tears. The inevitable had happened. As the final ball sailed over the boundary line, Kohli fell to the ground in tears as his teammates ran and celebrated with him. His wife and Bollywood actor Anushka Sharma was in disbelief as well.

<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru beat Punjab Kings by six runs in the summit clash</p>

IPL 2025: Virat Kohli in tears as RCB lift maiden IPL title-WATCH

<p><br>After a long wait of 18 years, RCB has finally clinched the IPL 2025 trophy! On Tuesday (June 3), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs in the final match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India.&nbsp;<br><br>It was a moment to remember for Virat Kohli, and the entire team after a thrilling victory. Actress Anushka Sharma, Kohli’s wife, was also in the stands and was seen jumping with joy as she celebrated the win. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-rcb-beat-pbks-by-6-runs-in-final-to-win-first-ipl-title-in-18-years-1748972749650">Check all live updates here:</a><br><br><strong>RCB wins IPL 2025 !</strong><br>&nbsp;</p><p>After a nail-biting match, RCB clinched the victory, and for Kohli, it was a moment filled with emotion, clearly evident from the tears running down his face during the final few balls after the win was confirmed. Kohli got teary-eyed as RCB secured the win in the last two overs. Meanwhile, his wife Anushka was seen jumping joyfully, hugging everyone around her in celebration.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-virat-kohli-in-tears-as-rcb-lift-maiden-ipl-title-1748975900250">IPL 2025: Virat Kohli in tears as RCB lift maiden IPL title-WATCH</a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Them🧿❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/anushkasharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#anushkasharma</a> <a href="https://t.co/EttrimRdvG">pic.twitter.com/EttrimRdvG</a></p>&mdash; s (@yaayerhs) <a href="https://twitter.com/yaayerhs/status/1929963252743582010?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Soon after RCB's triumph, Kohli and Anushka marked the big win with a heartfelt hug. The celebrity couple shared a tight hug and kisses, beaming with happiness as the stadium erupted with cheers. &nbsp;A viral video shows Virat running towards the stands as his wife Anushka also came down on the field to celebrate the moment.<br>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-pbks-ipl-2025-final-watch-phil-salt-takes-catch-of-the-match-to-dismiss-dangerous-priyansh-arya-1748969125833"><strong> RCB vs PBKS, IPL 2025 Final: WATCH | Phil Salt takes CATCH OF THE MATCH to dismiss dangerous Priyansh Arya</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thank you Anushka Sharma for taking care of this Kid for us 😭❤️ thank you so being there every time he needed someone so strong who can control that storm in him <br><br>Thank you for being our Lady luck ❤️<br><br>RCB RCB RCB <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnushkaSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnushkaSharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EeSalaCupNamde?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EeSalaCupNamde</a> <a href="https://t.co/MZpZ9glX6c">pic.twitter.com/MZpZ9glX6c</a></p>&mdash; Rahul | 🇮🇳 (@TheGoatNDevil) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheGoatNDevil/status/1929966803754856460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Everyone is looking at him and he&#39;s just looking at her embracing his world in his arms🥹🧿❤️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/anushkasharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#anushkasharma</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/virushka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#virushka</a> <a href="https://t.co/aeuRptxE35">pic.twitter.com/aeuRptxE35</a></p>&mdash; s (@yaayerhs) <a href="https://twitter.com/yaayerhs/status/1929970798984307169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">It’s the eyes, always the eyes, Chico, they never lie ♥️<br><br>If he doesn’t lock his eyes like this with me, what’s the point? 💁‍♀️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/couplegoals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#couplegoals</a> 🫰🤌♥️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli%F0%93%83%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli𓃵</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AnushkaSharma?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AnushkaSharma</a><br> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvsPBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvsPBKS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLFinals?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLFinals</a> <a href="https://t.co/vTAQx5IIdO">pic.twitter.com/vTAQx5IIdO</a></p>&mdash; Archana (@akkaonfire) <a href="https://twitter.com/akkaonfire/status/1929964548418666531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Much like every time, the Bollywood actress arrived at the stands on the right time and was seen watching the entire match with her all focus. For the big day, the actress wore an oversized white shirt with blue jeans. She kept her hair open and accessorised her look with golden statement jewellery.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Anushka, who hails from Bangalore, has been a relentless supporter of her husband throughout the season. She has been seen attending several matches this year. She has been seen attending several matches this year and has applauded her husband's performance from the pavilion. Needless to say, Virat and Anushka wrapped up the 2025 IPL with an emotional moment after ruling the internet all season with their endearing moments.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Anushka Sharma jumps with joy as RCB wins IPL 2025, shares emotional hug with Virat Kohli

After a long wait of 18 years, RCB has finally clinched the IPL 2025 trophy! On Tuesday (June 3), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs in the final match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India. It was a moment to remember for Virat Kohli, and the entire team after a thrilling victory. Actress Anushka Sharma, Kohli’s wife, was also in the stands and was seen jumping with joy as she celebrated the win. Check all live updates here: RCB wins IPL 2025 ! After a nail-biting match, RCB clinched the victory, and for Kohli, it was a moment filled with emotion, clearly evident from the tears running down his face during the final few balls after the win was confirmed. Kohli got teary-eyed as RCB secured the win in the last two overs. Meanwhile, his wife Anushka was seen jumping joyfully, hugging everyone around her in celebration. Also read: IPL 2025: Virat Kohli in tears as RCB lift maiden IPL title-WATCH

<p>Anushka, who hails from Bangalore, has been a relentless supporter of her husband throughout the season. She has been seen attending several matches this year and has applauded her husband's performance from the pavilion.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p>

Anushka Sharma jumps with joy as RCB win IPL 2025, shares emotional hug with Virat Kohli

<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs in the IPL 2025 Final on Tuesday (June 3) to finally win their maiden trophy. It took RCB 18 seasons to get their hands on the IPL trophy and they won it with some style at Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad.</p><p>Chasing 191, PBKS started well and added 43 runs for the first wicket before a sensational catch by Phil Salt sent back dangerous Priyansh Arya back for 24. PBKS finished the powerplay at 52/1 as Prabhsimran Singh and Josh Inglis continued to attack.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-creates-ipl-history-surpasses-shikhar-dhawan-to-become-player-with-most-1748957307503">Virat Kohli creates IPL history, surpasses Shikhar Dhawan to become player with most…</a></p><p>The duo added 29 runs in short time before Krunal Pandya dismissed Singh for 26. Skipper Shreyas Iyer was caught out seven balls later as Punjab's innings lost the momentum. With Inglis taken out by Pandya on the first ball of 13th over, PBKS slumped to 98/4, still 93 runs away from the target.</p><p>Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh added 38 runs for the fifth wicket to gain some steam but Bhuvneshwar Kumar took two wickets in three balls to effectively close the door on PBKS.</p><p>Needing 47 runs in last three overs, Yash Dayal dismissed Azmatullah Omarzai and Shashank was left to much to do on his own. PBKS eventually managed 184/7 in 20 overs and still remain title less. Shashank remained not out on 61 off 30 balls but it was not enough in the end.</p><p>Earlier, RCB lost the toss and were asked to bat first. Bengaluru opener Phil Salt hit 13 runs in the first over but played one shot too many and was dismissed in the next over. Virat Kohli and Mayank Agarwal then took RCB through the powerplay unscathed as they finished the first six overs at 55/1.</p><p>Yuzvendra Chahal came to bowl just after the powerplay and dismissed Agarwal (24 off 18) immediately to break the 38-run second wicket partnership. Kohli then added 40 runs with skipper Rajat Patidar before the latter was dismissed by Kyle Jamieson for 26 off 17 balls as RCB slumped to 96/2 in 11th over.</p><p>Kohli (43) was next to go while trying to change gears as RCB lost momentum and looked to finish at score of 170-odd runs. Liam Livingstone (25 off 15), Jitesh Sharma (24 off 10) and Romario Shepherd (17 of 9) then played handy innings to take RCB near to 200-run mark.</p><p>Arshdeen Singh, however, took three wickets in the last over as RCB finished at 190/9 in 20 overs.</p>

Needing 47 runs in last three overs, Yash Dayal dismissed Azmatullah Omarzai and Shashank was left to much to do on his own. PBKS eventually managed 184/7 in 20 overs and still remain title less.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs in the IPL 2025 Final on Tuesday (June 3) to finally win their maiden trophy. It took RCB 18 seasons to get their hands on the IPL trophy and they won it with some style at Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad. Chasing 191, PBKS started well and added 43 runs for the first wicket before a sensational catch by Phil Salt sent back dangerous Priyansh Arya back for 24. PBKS finished the powerplay at 52/1 as Prabhsimran Singh and Josh Inglis continued to attack. Also Read - Virat Kohli creates IPL history, surpasses Shikhar Dhawan to become player with most… The duo added 29 runs in short time before Krunal Pandya dismissed Singh for 26. Skipper Shreyas Iyer was caught out seven balls later as Punjab's innings lost the momentum. With Inglis taken out by Pandya on the first ball of 13th over, PBKS slumped to 98/4, still 93 runs away from the target. Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh added 38 runs for the fifth wicket to gain some steam but Bhuvneshwar Kumar took two wickets in three balls to effectively close the door on PBKS. Needing 47 runs in last three overs, Yash Dayal dismissed Azmatullah Omarzai and Shashank was left to much to do on his own. PBKS eventually managed 184/7 in 20 overs and still remain title less. Shashank remained not out on 61 off 30 balls but it was not enough in the end. Earlier, RCB lost the toss and were asked to bat first. Bengaluru opener Phil Salt hit 13 runs in the first over but played one shot too many and was dismissed in the next over. Virat Kohli and Mayank Agarwal then took RCB through the powerplay unscathed as they finished the first six overs at 55/1. Yuzvendra Chahal came to bowl just after the powerplay and dismissed Agarwal (24 off 18) immediately to break the 38-run second wicket partnership. Kohli then added 40 runs with skipper Rajat Patidar before the latter was dismissed by Kyle Jamieson for 26 off 17 balls as RCB slumped to 96/2 in 11th over. Kohli (43) was next to go while trying to change gears as RCB lost momentum and looked to finish at score of 170-odd runs. Liam Livingstone (25 off 15), Jitesh Sharma (24 off 10) and Romario Shepherd (17 of 9) then played handy innings to take RCB near to 200-run mark. Arshdeen Singh, however, took three wickets in the last over as RCB finished at 190/9 in 20 overs.

<p>Needing 47 runs in last three overs, Yash Dayal dismissed Azmatullah Omarzai and Shashank was left to much to do on his own. PBKS eventually managed 184/7 in 20 overs and still remain title less.</p>

IPL 2025 Final: RCB break title curse, beat Punjab Kings by 6 runs to win maiden title

<p>Virat Kohli has surpassed Shikhar Dhawan to become the player with the most boundaries in history of the Indian Premier League.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The swashbuckling batsman achieved this feat when he hit Kyle Jamieson for a boundary in the third over of the 2025 IPL final being played at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Tuesday (June 3).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Punjab Kings won the toss in the final and elected to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-pbks-ipl-2025-final-confetti-tells-a-story-here-is-what-it-says-1748952638598"><strong>RCB vs PBKS: IPL 2025 Final confetti tells a story. Here is what it says</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Shikhar Dhawan had hit a total of 768 boundaries (2008-2024). The left-handed batsman played for Delhi Capital, Deccan Chargers, Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings. Dhawan hit 768 boundaries in 222 matches and made a total of 6,769 runs with 106* as his highest score.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Virat crossed the feat in 267 matches. Notably, Virat has only played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru since the inception of the Indian Premier League, back in 2008. Prior to the final, Kohli had 8,618 runs under his belt with 113* as his highest score.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3><strong>Here are the top 5 batsman with most boundaries:</strong></h3>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Virat Kohli</td><td>769*</td></tr><tr><td>Shikhar Dhawan</td><td>768</td></tr><tr><td>David Warner</td><td>663</td></tr><tr><td>Rohit Sharma</td><td>640</td></tr><tr><td>Ajinkya Rahane</td><td>514</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Virat Kohli creates IPL history, surpasses Shikhar Dhawan to become player with most....

Virat Kohli has surpassed Shikhar Dhawan to become the player with the most boundaries in history of the Indian Premier League. The swashbuckling batsman achieved this feat when he hit Kyle Jamieson for a boundary in the third over of the 2025 IPL final being played at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Tuesday (June 3). Punjab Kings won the toss in the final and elected to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Also Read: RCB vs PBKS: IPL 2025 Final confetti tells a story. Here is what it says Shikhar Dhawan had hit a total of 768 boundaries (2008-2024). The left-handed batsman played for Delhi Capital, Deccan Chargers, Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings. Dhawan hit 768 boundaries in 222 matches and made a total of 6,769 runs with 106* as his highest score. Virat crossed the feat in 267 matches. Notably, Virat has only played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru since the inception of the Indian Premier League, back in 2008. Prior to the final, Kohli had 8,618 runs under his belt with 113* as his highest score. Here are the top 5 batsman with most boundaries:

<p>Punjab Kings won the toss in the final and elected to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru</p>

<p>Virat Kohli signalled ‘one more to go’ to his wife, Anushka Sharma, after his team, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), beat hosts Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29), punching their ticket for the tournament final. RCB reached their fourth IPL final to date, after having lost the previous three (2009, 2011 and 2016), with Virat, his teammates, and all franchise fans in attendance in Mullanpur celebrating this statement win over table-toppers PBKS.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Virat looked elated with RCB’s eight-wicket win inside 11 overs. Though he contributed with a couple of fours in his brief stay (12) at the crease, Kohli remained an integral part of the team’s success this season, having amassed 626 runs in 15 contested matches. With his team now playing the summit clash, Kohli and RCB are just one win away from realising their dream of winning an IPL final.</p><h3>Watch Video –</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">From doubted to destined. RCB’s in the IPL 2025 FINAL after a lot of grit, grind and glorious cricket! 🔥👑<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/vohcGJzbsg">pic.twitter.com/vohcGJzbsg</a></p>&mdash; Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1928141556436840698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Besides, RCB maintained their away win record this season. After creating history by becoming the first team ever to win all away matches in a season, RCB stretched its streak with one more in Qualifier 1, stamping its authority this year. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-watch-suyash-sharma-wreaks-havoc-with-dream-spell-as-rcb-narrow-pbks-in-qualifier-1-of-ipl-2025-playoffs-1748530439909"><strong>Watch: Suyash Sharma wreaks havoc with dream spell as RCB narrow PBKS in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025 Playoffs</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Unlike how it panned out in the previous game, RCB bowlers did an incredible job in New Chandigarh by reducing batting-heavy PBKS to just 101 in the first innings. Sending them to bat first after winning the toss, RCB seamers picked four wickets inside the Powerplay, including removing their captain Shreyas Iyer and star batter Josh Inglis; two openers – Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh got out inside the first six overs too.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Marcus Stoinis tried saving Punjab’s sinking ship but failed, as spinner Suyash Sharma wreaked havoc with three wickets in the middle overs. Returning Josh Hazlewood picked as many as PBKS were all out inside 15 overs.</p><h2>Salt rubs salt on Punjab’s wounds<br>&nbsp;</h2><p>Phil Salt was the star of the second innings, hitting an unbeaten and match-winning fifty (56 off 27 balls).&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>However, Punjab found early success in Kohli’s wicket, with Kyle Jamieson accounting for the Indian great; the debutant Musheer Khan removed RCB’s Impact Sub Mayank Agarwal on 19.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Those two were the only wickets that fell in the second innings, as RCB completed the run chase with utter ease.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>They will now face the winner of the Qualifier 2 (Sunday) on Tuesday (May 3) in the IPL 2025 final.</p>

IPL 2025 Kohli signals one more to go to wife Anushka as RCB fans celebrate lop sided win in Qualifier 1

Virat Kohli signalled ‘one more to go’ to his wife, Anushka Sharma, after his team, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), beat hosts Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29), punching their ticket for the tournament final. RCB reached their fourth IPL final to date, after having lost the previous three (2009, 2011 and 2016), with Virat, his teammates, and all franchise fans in attendance in Mullanpur celebrating this statement win over table-toppers PBKS. Virat looked elated with RCB’s eight-wicket win inside 11 overs. Though he contributed with a couple of fours in his brief stay (12) at the crease, Kohli remained an integral part of the team’s success this season, having amassed 626 runs in 15 contested matches. With his team now playing the summit clash, Kohli and RCB are just one win away from realising their dream of winning an IPL final. Watch Video –

<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru will now face the winner of the Qualifier 2 (Sunday) on Tuesday (May 3) in the IPL 2025 final.&nbsp;</p>

IPL 2025: Kohli signals ‘one more to go’ to wife Anushka, as RCB fans celebrate lop-sided win in Qualifier 1

<p>It was in 2016 that Virat Kohli scored 973 runs in the season but Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) still failed to win the IPL title. Nine years on, RCB are having one of their best seasons and Kohli is again leading in run scoring for them.</p><p>Kohli currently has 602 runs after 14 league stage games - the fifth most and 77 behind orange cap leader Sai Sudharsan's 679. This is the fifth time Kohli has 600+ runs in an IPL season - the most for any player in history.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-not-coach-gambhir-breaks-silence-on-shreyas-iyer-snub-from-india-squad-for-england-tests-1748506834686">'I am not...,' Coach Gambhir breaks silence on Shreyas Iyer's snub from India squad for England Tests</a></p><p>The batter has also crossed 9K runs for RCB for which he has been playing since IPL's inception back in 2008. Kohli is in great touch this season - having hit eight fifties in 14 innings which are the most for any batter.</p><p>Kohli's runs have come at an average of 60 and a strike rate of 148 with a best of 73 not out which came against Punjab Kings and they face the same team in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29).</p><p>Kohli's success with the bat has translated into RCB's result as well. The Rajat Patidar-led team finished second on the points table after the league stage with 18 points from nine wins, one no result and four losses.</p><p>This is one of the best years RCB are having as they look forward to end the title drought which has been going on for 18 years.</p><p>The winner of the RCB vs PBKS will move directly into the final which is set to be played on June 3 while the loser will get another opportunity to make it to the final by playing in the Qualifier 2 - the perk of finishing in the top two.</p><p>The losing team of Qualifier 1 will play the winner of MI vs GT Eliminator game (May 30) in Qualifier 2 on June 1.</p>

Kohli's 602 runs have come at an average of 60 and a strike rate of 148 with a best of 73 not out which came against Punjab Kings and they face the same team in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29).

It was in 2016 that Virat Kohli scored 973 runs in the season but Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) still failed to win the IPL title. Nine years on, RCB are having one of their best seasons and Kohli is again leading in run scoring for them. Kohli currently has 602 runs after 14 league stage games - the fifth most and 77 behind orange cap leader Sai Sudharsan's 679. This is the fifth time Kohli has 600+ runs in an IPL season - the most for any player in history. Also Read - 'I am not...,' Coach Gambhir breaks silence on Shreyas Iyer's snub from India squad for England Tests The batter has also crossed 9K runs for RCB for which he has been playing since IPL's inception back in 2008. Kohli is in great touch this season - having hit eight fifties in 14 innings which are the most for any batter. Kohli's runs have come at an average of 60 and a strike rate of 148 with a best of 73 not out which came against Punjab Kings and they face the same team in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29). Kohli's success with the bat has translated into RCB's result as well. The Rajat Patidar-led team finished second on the points table after the league stage with 18 points from nine wins, one no result and four losses. This is one of the best years RCB are having as they look forward to end the title drought which has been going on for 18 years. The winner of the RCB vs PBKS will move directly into the final which is set to be played on June 3 while the loser will get another opportunity to make it to the final by playing in the Qualifier 2 - the perk of finishing in the top two. The losing team of Qualifier 1 will play the winner of MI vs GT Eliminator game (May 30) in Qualifier 2 on June 1.

<p>Kohli's 602 runs have come at an average of 60 and a strike rate of 148 with a best of 73 not out which came against Punjab Kings and they face the same team in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29).</p>

PBKS vs RCB Qualifier 1: Kohli's bumper season with bat ignites IPL 2016 memories for Bengaluru

<p>Former India batter Virender Sehwag questioned BCCI’s double standards in punishing players over similar offences over time. Sehwag pointed out how certain top cricketers, including MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, have escaped suspensions for breaching IPL’s code of conduct before, while the apex body has charged someone new like LSG spinner Digvesh Rathi for a celebration.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>All unfolded during the LSG vs SRH game in IPL 2025 when, after dismissing centurion Abhishek Sharma, caught in the deep, Digvesh gave him a fiery send-off, adding up his ‘notebook celebration’ that made things worse. As he began celebrating, Abhishek confronted him, leading to a verbal brawl. The on-field umpires and LSG players had to rush in to separate the two, with the BCCI and IPL taking strict actions against both.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-it-got-me-so-angry-ab-de-villiers-lashes-out-at-tv-commentators-for-negative-remarks-on-rcb-s-bowling-against-lsg-1748503182471"><strong>‘It got me so angry’: AB de Villiers lashes out at TV commentators for ‘negative remarks’ on RCB’s bowling against LSG</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>While the IPL fined Abhishek for his loud reaction to Digvesh’s celebration, further slapping him with demerit points, they suspended the leg-spinner for a game. That, however, happened because the LSG spinner had already collected a few demerits points (five) this season, particularly for his notebook celebration.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"I thought that the ban was a bit harsh. The boy is playing in his first year in the IPL. MS Dhoni had barged into the ground; he was not banned then. Virat Kohli has spoken to umpires in that tone, who knows how many times, he was also not banned. So, Digvesh Rathi could have been spared, because he is a young player, just coming into the scene, could have let that one go," Sehwag said, speaking on Cricbuzz.</p><h2>The instances<br>&nbsp;</h2><p>During a game between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL 2019 in Jaipur, Dhoni barred into the ground midway into the game, leading to tense chats between the players and officials. Although none of the players picked in the XI, dismissed or yet to bat, were and are allowed to enter the ground anytime during the match, Dhoni got away with a minute punishment.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>On the other hand, Virat has had his share of verbal brawls with several players and even match officials during his IPL career but never faced a suspension for the same.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, LSG is knocked out of the IPL 2025 playoff race, finishing seventh on the points table with six wins and eight losses in 14 contested matches.&nbsp;</p>

Sehwag questions BCCI’s double standards in punishing players, picks out Dhoni’s, Kohli’s instances in Digvesh Rathi’s defence

Former India batter Virender Sehwag questioned BCCI’s double standards in punishing players over similar offences over time. Sehwag pointed out how certain top cricketers, including MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, have escaped suspensions for breaching IPL’s code of conduct before, while the apex body has charged someone new like LSG spinner Digvesh Rathi for a celebration. All unfolded during the LSG vs SRH game in IPL 2025 when, after dismissing centurion Abhishek Sharma, caught in the deep, Digvesh gave him a fiery send-off, adding up his ‘notebook celebration’ that made things worse. As he began celebrating, Abhishek confronted him, leading to a verbal brawl. The on-field umpires and LSG players had to rush in to separate the two, with the BCCI and IPL taking strict actions against both. Also read | ‘It got me so angry’: AB de Villiers lashes out at TV commentators for ‘negative remarks’ on RCB’s bowling against LSG While the IPL fined Abhishek for his loud reaction to Digvesh’s celebration, further slapping him with demerit points, they suspended the leg-spinner for a game. That, however, happened because the LSG spinner had already collected a few demerits points (five) this season, particularly for his notebook celebration. "I thought that the ban was a bit harsh. The boy is playing in his first year in the IPL. MS Dhoni had barged into the ground; he was not banned then. Virat Kohli has spoken to umpires in that tone, who knows how many times, he was also not banned. So, Digvesh Rathi could have been spared, because he is a young player, just coming into the scene, could have let that one go," Sehwag said, speaking on Cricbuzz. The instances During a game between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL 2019 in Jaipur, Dhoni barred into the ground midway into the game, leading to tense chats between the players and officials. Although none of the players picked in the XI, dismissed or yet to bat, were and are allowed to enter the ground anytime during the match, Dhoni got away with a minute punishment. On the other hand, Virat has had his share of verbal brawls with several players and even match officials during his IPL career but never faced a suspension for the same. Meanwhile, LSG is knocked out of the IPL 2025 playoff race, finishing seventh on the points table with six wins and eight losses in 14 contested matches.

<p>All unfolded during the LSG vs SRH game in IPL 2025 when, after dismissing centurion Abhishek Sharma, caught in the deep, Digvesh gave him a fiery send-off, adding up his ‘notebook celebration’ that made things worse.</p>

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, here is a look at 5 batters with the most runs in the IPL 2025 league stage also featuring Sai Sudharsan, Suryakumar Yadav and Mitchell Marsh.

<p>From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, here's look at 5 batters with the most runs in the IPL 2025 league stage also featuring Sai Sudharsan, Suryakumar Yadav and Mitchell Marsh.</p>

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, 5 batters with the most runs in the IPL 2025 league stage

<p>Just days after visiting Swami Premanand Maharaj’s ashram in Vrindavan, star India batter Virat Kohli was spotted in Ayodhya Dham along with his wife Anushka Sharma as they paid a visit to the Ram Mandir. Virat, currently in Lucknow for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025), made the three-hour drive from the city to Ayodhya Dham, the birthplace of Shri Ram, a divine incarnation (avatar) of the god Vishnu. Virat was greeted by the local priests as pictures of him and Anushka were doing rounds on the internet.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="hi" dir="ltr">Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma visited Shree Hanuman Garhi temple in Ayodhya. 🙏❤️<a href="https://t.co/KKo6kdFAFU">pic.twitter.com/KKo6kdFAFU</a></p>&mdash; Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1926498198262108550?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><strong>Virat-Anushka visits Ram Mandir</strong></h2><p>One of the best batters of his generation, the former India captain called time on his illustrious Test career on April 12. Just a day later he was spotted in Vrindavan’s Swami Premanand Maharaj ashram, seeking blessings. However, with the RCB camp in Lucknow for the last few days, Virat took the opportunity to visit the Ram Mandir.</p><p>Virat and Anushka later visited the Hanuman Garhi temple, situated next to the Ram Mandir. A video of them was also doing rounds on internet while they were in the Hanuman Garhi temple.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Calling time on his Test career, Virat played in the red-ball format for 14 years and scored more than 9000 runs. The 36-year-old made 123 appearances in Tests, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, with 30 centuries and 31 fifties in 210 innings and the best score of 254*. He is India’s fourth-highest run-getter in the format, behind Sachin Tendulkar (15,921 runs), Rahul Dravid (13,265 runs), and Sunil Gavaskar (10,122 runs).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>RCB are next in action on Tuesday when they play against Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. It will be a must-win contest for RCB if there are qualify for Qualifier 1, which guarantees two shots to reach the summit clash. Interestingly, Virat has never won the IPL in 18 years but will be weighing his chances ahead of the crucial phase.</p>

Just days after visiting Swami Premanand Maharaj’s ashram in Vrindavan, star India batter Virat Kohli was spotted in Ayodhya Dham along with his wife Anushka Sharma as they paid a visit to the Ram Mandir.

Just days after visiting Swami Premanand Maharaj’s ashram in Vrindavan, star India batter Virat Kohli was spotted in Ayodhya Dham along with his wife Anushka Sharma as they paid a visit to the Ram Mandir. Virat, currently in Lucknow for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025), made the three-hour drive from the city to Ayodhya Dham, the birthplace of Shri Ram, a divine incarnation (avatar) of the god Vishnu. Virat was greeted by the local priests as pictures of him and Anushka were doing rounds on the internet.

<p>Just days after visiting Swami Premanand Maharaj’s ashram in Vrindavan, star India batter Virat Kohli was spotted in Ayodhya Dham along with his wife Anushka Sharma as they paid a visit to the Ram Mandir.</p>

WATCH: Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma visit Ram Mandir, Hanuman Garhi temple in Ayodhya Dham

<p>Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma announced their Test retirements earlier in May, sending the cricketing world into a frenzy. While concerns around Rohit’s fitness and form in red-ball cricket continued to magnify with each passing series, making sense as to why he retired, Kohli’s Test retirement call shocked all.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With both absent from the Test squad for the away England Tests starting June 20 in Leeds, chief selector Ajit Agarkar spoke on their retirements for the first time since, urging fans to respect it and move on.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-eng-vs-ind-2025-mohammed-shami-jasprit-bumrah-head-selector-ajit-agarkar-warns-fans-of-double-blow-in-tests-1748089531466"><strong>First Shami and now Bumrah – Chief selector Agarkar warns fans of double blow in ENG Tests</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Agarkar-led selection panel picked ace batter Shubman Gill as Rohit’s successor in Tests, naming him the new Test captain.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>During the presser in Mumbai on Saturday afternoon (May 24), Agarkar revealed it was during April when Virat reached out to him and informed him about wanting to do away with Tests.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Virat reached out early April and said he wants to finish," Agarkar said during the presser.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"We've seen him give 200% to every ball that he plays, even when he is not batting or he's in the field. He probably felt that he had given everything that he had, and if he can't keep up to the standards that he set for himself over the years and how good he had been, and maybe it was time for him.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"It has come from him. You've got to respect that. They have earned that respect, both of them. As all great players are, the one thing there is, they are true to themselves, and he was in that conversation. So you've got to respect that. We'll obviously miss [Kohli] when you've got a guy who's played 123 Test matches, 30 Test hundreds, it's going to be tough to fill,” he continued.</p><h2>No talks around Rohit’s retirement talk<br>&nbsp;</h2><p>Although he shed light on the whole episode surrounding Virat Kohli’s Test retirement, Agarkar shared no details on what prompted former skipper Rohit to call time on his red-ball career.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>However, he remained focused on how the younger breed of superstars are ready to take Indian Cricket forward, with the away England series their first assignment without Rohit, Kohli and even Ravichandran Ashwin, who announced his Test retirement after the third Test Down Under in Brisbane.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"When guys like that retire, it's always going to be big holes to fill," Agarkar said.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Ashwin retired a few months back as well, so those three guys are stalwarts of our cricket. It's always difficult. One way of looking at it is an opportunity for someone else. They've left a legacy behind.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Needless to say, Rohit has been a leader over the last couple of years since he started leading in the Test matches. It is a new cycle, so it is an opportunity to build something for us as well. That's why I think we've got to show them the respect that they want instead of speculating too many things. It is sometimes a personal call with players , and you've got to respect that, and their performances over the years have shown in the amount of games that they've won for India,” he added.</p>

Ajit Agarkar breaks silence on Virat and Rohit Test retirement calls urges fans to respect it and move on

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma announced their Test retirements earlier in May, sending the cricketing world into a frenzy. While concerns around Rohit’s fitness and form in red-ball cricket continued to magnify with each passing series, making sense as to why he retired, Kohli’s Test retirement call shocked all. With both absent from the Test squad for the away England Tests starting June 20 in Leeds, chief selector Ajit Agarkar spoke on their retirements for the first time since, urging fans to respect it and move on. Also read | First Shami and now Bumrah – Chief selector Agarkar warns fans of double blow in ENG Tests Agarkar-led selection panel picked ace batter Shubman Gill as Rohit’s successor in Tests, naming him the new Test captain. During the presser in Mumbai on Saturday afternoon (May 24), Agarkar revealed it was during April when Virat reached out to him and informed him about wanting to do away with Tests. "Virat reached out early April and said he wants to finish," Agarkar said during the presser. "We've seen him give 200% to every ball that he plays, even when he is not batting or he's in the field. He probably felt that he had given everything that he had, and if he can't keep up to the standards that he set for himself over the years and how good he had been, and maybe it was time for him. "It has come from him. You've got to respect that. They have earned that respect, both of them. As all great players are, the one thing there is, they are true to themselves, and he was in that conversation. So you've got to respect that. We'll obviously miss [Kohli] when you've got a guy who's played 123 Test matches, 30 Test hundreds, it's going to be tough to fill,” he continued. No talks around Rohit’s retirement talk Although he shed light on the whole episode surrounding Virat Kohli’s Test retirement, Agarkar shared no details on what prompted former skipper Rohit to call time on his red-ball career. However, he remained focused on how the younger breed of superstars are ready to take Indian Cricket forward, with the away England series their first assignment without Rohit, Kohli and even Ravichandran Ashwin, who announced his Test retirement after the third Test Down Under in Brisbane. "When guys like that retire, it's always going to be big holes to fill," Agarkar said. "Ashwin retired a few months back as well, so those three guys are stalwarts of our cricket. It's always difficult. One way of looking at it is an opportunity for someone else. They've left a legacy behind. "Needless to say, Rohit has been a leader over the last couple of years since he started leading in the Test matches. It is a new cycle, so it is an opportunity to build something for us as well. That's why I think we've got to show them the respect that they want instead of speculating too many things. It is sometimes a personal call with players , and you've got to respect that, and their performances over the years have shown in the amount of games that they've won for India,” he added.

<p>Agarkar-led selection panel picked ace batter Shubman Gill as Rohit’s successor in Tests, naming him the new Test captain.&nbsp;</p>

Ajit Agarkar breaks silence on Virat and Rohit’s Test retirement calls, urges fans to ‘respect it and move on’

<p>India head coach Gautam Gambhir has reacted to sudden retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket. The duo, who retired in a week of each other earlier this month, has left a huge gap in India's batting line up. The coach, however, acknowledges that retiring is an 'individual decision.'</p><p>"I think, when you start the game and when you want to finish, it's a very individual decision. No one has the right," said Gambhir while talking to Cricket Next.</p><p>"Be it the coach, the selector, be it anyone in this country, has any right to tell someone when to retire and when not to retire. So it comes from within," he added.</p><p><strong>Also Read -</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/marsh-brothers-shaun-115-and-mitchell-117-become-only-sibling-duo-to-score-hundreds-in-ipl-history-1747988581871">'Got the golden ticket': Marsh brothers, Shaun and Mitchell, become only sibling duo to score hundreds in IPL history</a></p><p>Gambhir also acknowledged that 'it'll be tough for India' when they travel to England next month for five-Test series. The coach, however, was confident of other players standing up just like they did in Champions Trophy in absence of Jasprit Bumrah.</p><p>"Yes, we've got to be without two senior players. And sometimes I believe that it's the opportunity for some other people to put their hand up and say, Okay, I'm ready for it. So yes, it will be tough, but then there'll be people putting their hand up for sure because this question was asked to me before," Gambhir said.</p><p>"Champions Trophy as well. When Jasprit Bumrah wasn't there, I said exactly the same thing: someone missing out might give another person an opportunity to do something special for the country. Hopefully, there'll be other guys waiting for that opportunity," he added.</p><p>Rohit announced his retirement on May 7 while Kohli stepped away on May 12. In addition to them, veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin had also announced his retirement immediately after the Test tour of Australia earlier this year.</p><p>India would be very different team on England tour with a new captain and a couple of new batters in the middle order.</p>

Rohit announced his retirement on May 7 while Kohli stepped away on May 12. In addition to them, veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin had also announced his retirement immediately after the Test tour of Australia earlier this year.

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has reacted to sudden retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket. The duo, who retired in a week of each other earlier this month, has left a huge gap in India's batting line up. The coach, however, acknowledges that retiring is an 'individual decision.' "I think, when you start the game and when you want to finish, it's a very individual decision. No one has the right," said Gambhir while talking to Cricket Next. "Be it the coach, the selector, be it anyone in this country, has any right to tell someone when to retire and when not to retire. So it comes from within," he added. Also Read - 'Got the golden ticket': Marsh brothers, Shaun and Mitchell, become only sibling duo to score hundreds in IPL history Gambhir also acknowledged that 'it'll be tough for India' when they travel to England next month for five-Test series. The coach, however, was confident of other players standing up just like they did in Champions Trophy in absence of Jasprit Bumrah. "Yes, we've got to be without two senior players. And sometimes I believe that it's the opportunity for some other people to put their hand up and say, Okay, I'm ready for it. So yes, it will be tough, but then there'll be people putting their hand up for sure because this question was asked to me before," Gambhir said. "Champions Trophy as well. When Jasprit Bumrah wasn't there, I said exactly the same thing: someone missing out might give another person an opportunity to do something special for the country. Hopefully, there'll be other guys waiting for that opportunity," he added. Rohit announced his retirement on May 7 while Kohli stepped away on May 12. In addition to them, veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin had also announced his retirement immediately after the Test tour of Australia earlier this year. India would be very different team on England tour with a new captain and a couple of new batters in the middle order.

<p>Rohit announced his retirement on May 7 while Kohli stepped away on May 12. In addition to them, veteran spinner Ravi Ashwin had also announced his retirement immediately after the Test tour of Australia earlier this year.</p>

India coach Gambhir opens up on Test retirement of Virat and Rohit, says 'very individual decision'

<p>England Test captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ben-stokes">Ben Stokes</a> talked highly of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>, who announced his Test retirement recently. Taking to social media, Kohli called time on his glorious Test career, which saw him play 123 matches and score 9230 runs at an average of over 46. Kohli’s decision to do away with Tests left the cricket world in a frenzy, including Stokes, who admitted texting him afterwards.</p>

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<p>Stokes is back playing Tests - currently involved in an official four-day Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge. He will lead England in the marquee series against India starting June 20 in Leeds. The touring Indian side, however, will be without their two superstar batters – Virat and former team captain Rohit Sharma, who announced his Test retirement early in the month.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Stokes said India would miss Kohli's fighting spirit on the field this time and that he doesn’t see anyone else donning the number 18 jersey in Indian cricket again as a tribute to Kohli. Stokes continued, saying that he and Virat shared the same mindset, adding that the Indian great has been a class player all this while.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“I texted him, saying it’s going to be a shame not playing against him this time. I love playing against Virat. We both have that same mindset on the field – it’s a battle,” Stokes said in a video released by the ECB.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“What India will miss is his fighting spirit on the field, his competitiveness, his desire to win. He’s made No. 18 his own – we might never see it on the back of another Indian shirt. He’s been class for such a long time.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“He has been incredible, and no doubt there is a lot of praise coming for him from everywhere in India and from here. He has done really well against England,” he continued.</p><h2>‘Virat is the best I’ve faced’</h2><p>Showering praises on the India great, Stokes called Virat one of the best players he has played against, especially in the white-ball formats, where he excelled and won multiple ICC titles.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The English Test captain also picked his favourite shot of Virat’s, and it’s not an on-drive.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“Definitely, he is up there. White-ball formats especially, just… wow. Something I will always remember about Virat is just how hard he hits the ball through covers. The cover drive would be the one,” Stokes said.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Virat retired as India’s fourth-highest Test scorer, having hit 30 centuries and 31 fifties.&nbsp;</p>

‘We might never see it Ben Stokes highest praise for Virat Kohli after his Test retirement

England Test captain Ben Stokes talked highly of Virat Kohli, who announced his Test retirement recently. Taking to social media, Kohli called time on his glorious Test career, which saw him play 123 matches and score 9230 runs at an average of over 46. Kohli’s decision to do away with Tests left the cricket world in a frenzy, including Stokes, who admitted texting him afterwards.

<p>Stokes said India would miss Kohli's fighting spirit on the field this time and that he doesn’t see anyone else donning the number 18 jersey in Indian cricket again as a tribute to Kohli.</p>

‘We might never see it…,’ Ben Stokes’ highest praise for Virat Kohli after his Test retirement

After securing the playoff berth in IPL 2025, RCB would like to retain these 5 key players post this season to build a strong core and be prepared for IPL 2026.

<p>After securing the playoff berth in IPL 2025, RCB would like to retain these 5 key players post this season to build a strong core and be prepared for IPL 2026.</p>

RCB might retain these 5 players after IPL 2025. Virat Kohli is sure, check others

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, here is a look at 6 Indian batters with most runs on English soil also including Rahul Dravid, Sunil Gavaskar and Sourav Ganguly.

<p>From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, here is a look at 5 Indian batters with most runs on English soil also including Rahul Dravid, Sunil Gavaskar and Sourav Ganguly.</p>

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, 6 Indian batters with most runs on English soil

Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan have stepped up for Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2025 and have recorded the most runs by an Indian pair in IPL 2025. Check out the other Indian duos with a record-breaking partnership in IPL history.

<p>Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan have stepped for Gujarat Titans (GT) in IPL 2025 and have recorded the most runs by an Indian pair in IPL 2025. Check out the other Indian duos with record-breaking partnerships in IPL history.</p>

Indian pairs with most partnership run in single IPL season

<p><span>Gujarat Titans pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ishant-sharma">Ishant Sharma</a> on Saturday (May 17) opened about his relationship with star India batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a>, who recently announced his retirement from the Test cricket.</span></p>
<p>"I think Virat Kohli is for outside people. I can't see him like that because we played in the U-17s. He is a childhood friend to me," Ishant said on Star Sports Press Room with Gujarat Titans around the race to the play-offs.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-will-be-more-kohlis-not-like-we-dont-have-talent-aimim-chief-asaduddin-owaisi-9079354">There will be more Kohli's, not like we don't have talent: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi</a></strong></p>
<p>"When we were in the U-19s, we used to count how much money we had. We used to eat food. When we used to go to the U-19s, we used to save our travel allowances and take them with us. So, Virat Kohli is different for everyone. He is different for me," he added.</p>
<h2>'We always talked about funny jokes'</h2>
<p>Ishant went on to say that their interactions rarely involve talks about cricket but it's all about humour and banter.&nbsp;"When we meet, we never talk about how we played so many Test matches. We never talk about it. We talk about funny jokes. This is happening, that is happening, look at this, look at that. Funny jokes," he remembered.</p>
<p>"I have never felt that he is Virat Kohli. For us, he is Cheeku. We have always seen it like this. He has also seen me like this. We shared rooms and so many memories," he added.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans will play against Delhi Capitals on Sunday (May 18) at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium. Gujarat are currently at top of the table with 16 points from 11 matches and need just one win to secure their spot in the playoffs.</p>
<p>The pacer also talked about his relationship with team's head coach <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ashish-nehra">Ashish Nehra</a>. He said, "If I talk about my relation, like that, I have played with him, we used to play together when I made my debut. Not only international debut, but even in my first-class debut, he was bowling, and I bowled a lot. So we know each other in many ways. We have meetings in the corridor, we discuss batters in the bus, that this batter can do this, or that, and this or that can happen.&rdquo;</p>
<p>&ldquo;So we never actually formally talk about meetings. In our meetings, we drink tea and coffee. So our meeting is not a formal meeting where we discuss batters, that we will do this, we will do that. It's a very chill atmosphere, and it&rsquo;s not just with me, but with everyone,&rdquo; he signed off.</p>

Sports: During the ongoing IPL season, playing for Gujarat Titans, Ishant Sharma has taken on more of a mentorship role, particularly under guidance of Ashish Nehra

Gujarat Titans pacer Ishant Sharma on Saturday (May 17) opened about his relationship with star India batter Virat Kohli, who recently announced his retirement from the Test cricket. "I think Virat Kohli is for outside people. I can't see him like that because we played in the U-17s. He is a childhood friend to me," Ishant said on Star Sports Press Room with Gujarat Titans around the race to the play-offs. Also Read: There will be more Kohli's, not like we don't have talent: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi "When we were in the U-19s, we used to count how much money we had. We used to eat food. When we used to go to the U-19s, we used to save our travel allowances and take them with us. So, Virat Kohli is different for everyone. He is different for me," he added. 'We always talked about funny jokes' Ishant went on to say that their interactions rarely involve talks about cricket but it's all about humour and banter. "When we meet, we never talk about how we played so many Test matches. We never talk about it. We talk about funny jokes. This is happening, that is happening, look at this, look at that. Funny jokes," he remembered. "I have never felt that he is Virat Kohli. For us, he is Cheeku. We have always seen it like this. He has also seen me like this. We shared rooms and so many memories," he added. Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans will play against Delhi Capitals on Sunday (May 18) at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium. Gujarat are currently at top of the table with 16 points from 11 matches and need just one win to secure their spot in the playoffs. The pacer also talked about his relationship with team's head coach Ashish Nehra. He said, "If I talk about my relation, like that, I have played with him, we used to play together when I made my debut. Not only international debut, but even in my first-class debut, he was bowling, and I bowled a lot. So we know each other in many ways. We have meetings in the corridor, we discuss batters in the bus, that this batter can do this, or that, and this or that can happen.” “So we never actually formally talk about meetings. In our meetings, we drink tea and coffee. So our meeting is not a formal meeting where we discuss batters, that we will do this, we will do that. It's a very chill atmosphere, and it’s not just with me, but with everyone,” he signed off.

IPL 2025: For me, Virat will always be 'chiku': Gujarat Titans pacer Ishant Sharma on bond with Kohli

<p>Former BCCI president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sourav-ganguly">Sourav Ganguly</a> on Saturday (May 17) conveyed optimism regarding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/eden-gardens">Eden Gardens</a> not losing its appointment with the 2025 IPL final and opined that the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) enjoys an 'excellent relationship' with the sport's omnipotent top governing body.</p>
<p>The BCCI has not announced the venues for the playoffs of the IPL officially despite having made the rescheduled league matches after the league was suspended on May 8 owing to India-Pakistan tension.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"No, no, we're trying -- talking to the BCCI," Ganguly replied when questioned regarding whether Eden Gardens would host the final according to the initial schedule.</p>
<p>"Eto sohoje sore jawa jay? (Is it that easy to shift the final). It's Eden's playoffs, and I am sure everything will be fine. I am very optimistic," said Ganguly.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-for-me-virat-will-always-be-chiku-gujarat-titans-pacer-ishant-sharma-on-bond-with-kohli-9079122">IPL 2025: For me, Virat will always be 'chiku': Gujarat Titans pacer Ishant Sharma on bond with Kohli</a></strong></p>
<p>A group of people also held a protest outside the historic venue on Friday, calling for the IPL final to be held in Kolkata."Protest does not help. BCCI has a very good relationship with the Cricket Association of Bengal," the former India captain said.</p>
<p>Refuting the delay in the finalisation of playoff grounds, Ganguly said: "Kolkata has completed its league matches, so Eden is not there in the first list."</p>
<p>Eden Gardens was given the final for Kolkata Knight Riders' title-winning perf ormance in the 2024 season.&nbsp;The ground also held the inaugural match of the 2025 edition.</p>
<p>The schedule of the tournament was delayed by a week with the final held on June 3 rather than the originally scheduled May 25.</p>
<p>According to the initial plan, Eden Gardens was going to hold Qualifier 2 on May 23 and the final on May 25.&nbsp;The BCCI, though, has kept the new venue of the final under wraps, generating more speculations.</p>
<p>The basis of the suggested change is the weather, as the southwest monsoon's onset is near the region during that period.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The CAB is said to have submitted data from IMD to the BCCI, stating that the weather in Kolkata will be conducive to hosting the final on June 3.&nbsp;But the BCCI is believed to have passed on the message that it is too early to make a decision based on long-term predictions and that better weather forecasts will be available only by May 25.</p>
<h2>Ganguly 'surprised' by Kohli Test retirement</h2>
<p>Test cricket in India has faced twin blows of late with captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rohit-sharma">Rohit Sharma</a> and batting legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> retiring from the game's longest format.</p>
<p>Responding to the news, the ex-India captain was shocked at Kohli's decision and lauded both players for their distinguished careers.</p>
<p>"It's their own choice. Can anyone quit the game without it being their own desire? But it's been a great career, and the same is true for Rohit Sharma. Kohli's retirement has left me surprised," Ganguly asserted.</p>
<p>Rohit was the first one to call time on his red-ball career, and soon afterwards Kohli quit, leaving a huge gap in the team.</p>
<p>The departures are at a critical time, with a challenging five-match Test series against England lined up next month.</p>
<p>Attention now turns to India's choice of next Test captain, with debate already raging about whether Shubman Gill or Jasprit Bumrah should be the new captain.</p>
<p>"It's something the selectors need to consider very seriously," said Ganguly.&nbsp;"There are plenty of advantages and disadvantages. They need to think long term. Whatever the selectors think and work through, they will decide. There's also the issue of Bumrah's injury -- whatever they decide.," Ganguly said.</p>

India News, Sports: The BCCI has not announced the venues for the playoffs of the IPL officially despite having made the rescheduled league matches

Former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly on Saturday (May 17) conveyed optimism regarding Eden Gardens not losing its appointment with the 2025 IPL final and opined that the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) enjoys an 'excellent relationship' with the sport's omnipotent top governing body. The BCCI has not announced the venues for the playoffs of the IPL officially despite having made the rescheduled league matches after the league was suspended on May 8 owing to India-Pakistan tension. "No, no, we're trying -- talking to the BCCI," Ganguly replied when questioned regarding whether Eden Gardens would host the final according to the initial schedule. "Eto sohoje sore jawa jay? (Is it that easy to shift the final). It's Eden's playoffs, and I am sure everything will be fine. I am very optimistic," said Ganguly. Also Read: IPL 2025: For me, Virat will always be 'chiku': Gujarat Titans pacer Ishant Sharma on bond with Kohli A group of people also held a protest outside the historic venue on Friday, calling for the IPL final to be held in Kolkata."Protest does not help. BCCI has a very good relationship with the Cricket Association of Bengal," the former India captain said. Refuting the delay in the finalisation of playoff grounds, Ganguly said: "Kolkata has completed its league matches, so Eden is not there in the first list." Eden Gardens was given the final for Kolkata Knight Riders' title-winning perf ormance in the 2024 season. The ground also held the inaugural match of the 2025 edition. The schedule of the tournament was delayed by a week with the final held on June 3 rather than the originally scheduled May 25. According to the initial plan, Eden Gardens was going to hold Qualifier 2 on May 23 and the final on May 25. The BCCI, though, has kept the new venue of the final under wraps, generating more speculations. The basis of the suggested change is the weather, as the southwest monsoon's onset is near the region during that period. The CAB is said to have submitted data from IMD to the BCCI, stating that the weather in Kolkata will be conducive to hosting the final on June 3. But the BCCI is believed to have passed on the message that it is too early to make a decision based on long-term predictions and that better weather forecasts will be available only by May 25. Ganguly 'surprised' by Kohli Test retirement Test cricket in India has faced twin blows of late with captain Rohit Sharma and batting legend Virat Kohli retiring from the game's longest format. Responding to the news, the ex-India captain was shocked at Kohli's decision and lauded both players for their distinguished careers. "It's their own choice. Can anyone quit the game without it being their own desire? But it's been a great career, and the same is true for Rohit Sharma. Kohli's retirement has left me surprised," Ganguly asserted. Rohit was the first one to call time on his red-ball career, and soon afterwards Kohli quit, leaving a huge gap in the team. The departures are at a critical time, with a challenging five-match Test series against England lined up next month. Attention now turns to India's choice of next Test captain, with debate already raging about whether Shubman Gill or Jasprit Bumrah should be the new captain. "It's something the selectors need to consider very seriously," said Ganguly. "There are plenty of advantages and disadvantages. They need to think long term. Whatever the selectors think and work through, they will decide. There's also the issue of Bumrah's injury -- whatever they decide.," Ganguly said.

IPL 2025 | Not that easy to shift final: Ganguly optimistic of Eden Gardens keeping date with summit clash

<p>AIMIM leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/asaduddin-owaisi">Asaduddin Owaisi</a>, who was once better remembered for his aggressive medium paced bowling than for aggressive oratory, remembers beating future India paceman Venkatesh Prasad in an inter-university final game during the early 90s.</p>
<p>Owaisi took 6/79 and on Saturday (May 17), he remembered with delight that Prasad was wicketless in the game. For the record Prasad's Bengaluru University side defeated the future Hyderabadi politician's Osmania University.</p>
<p>"We lost the game but I did take six wickets and Venkatesh took none," the Hyderabad constituency MP said in an interview to PTI.</p>
<p>Proudly, Owaisi presented on his phone the photograph of a big write-up in the local Deccan Chronicle newspaper after the day's play, with the score card. The report included a small photograph of the then clean-shaven Owaisi, his hair pasted on the scalp.</p>
<p>Then he was chosen to represent South Zone inter-university Under-25 team, and participated in Vizzy Trophy, a country-wide level one-day competition for university sides, in 1994.</p>
<p>But fate had it otherwise that he traveled to London to read law at Lincoln's Inn and "the cricketing chapter ended right there."</p>
<p>He humbly rejects speculation that he might have achieved the top league if he had continued to play cricket, like other Hyderabadis <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammad-azharuddin" rel="dofollow">Mohammad Azharuddin</a>, Abid Ali, ML Jaisimha, Ghulam Hussain and VVS Laxman. To him, they were all-time greats and he was merely an average bowler</p>
<p>"No no no! My name can't be compared with Azharuddin. He is a man who played 99 Tests. You can't compare me with Azharuddin. As a cricketer I salute him. As a politician I have quite a few differences with him," said Owaisi.</p>
<p>He concurred with the argument that Indian cricket today has made the game democratic and provided opportunities for players from all sorts of backgrounds to reach the top, referencing the tale of pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mohammed-siraj">Mohammad Siraj</a>. But it has to be made more democratic, he added.</p>
<p>"See Mohammad Siraj today. Mashallah. Poor background boy. Through sheer hard work he made it and has achieved 100 Test wickets. Excellent journey. inspirational!. Hope that he plays extensively for India and brings many wins to India.</p>
<h2>'We will miss his cover drive'</h2>
<p>He made rich tributes to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> who this week dropped a bombshell by announcing his Test retirement.".</p>
<p>"Astonishing player he is. We will always miss his cover drive. On the rise the manner in which he pulled over the head of the bowler! Arey great player is. Astonishing player is.</p>
<p>"But there will be more Kohlis. It's not that we don't have talent in India," he signed off.</p>

Sports: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Saturday paid high tributes to India star batter Virat Kohli who this week announced his retirement from Test cricket

AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, who was once better remembered for his aggressive medium paced bowling than for aggressive oratory, remembers beating future India paceman Venkatesh Prasad in an inter-university final game during the early 90s. Owaisi took 6/79 and on Saturday (May 17), he remembered with delight that Prasad was wicketless in the game. For the record Prasad's Bengaluru University side defeated the future Hyderabadi politician's Osmania University. "We lost the game but I did take six wickets and Venkatesh took none," the Hyderabad constituency MP said in an interview to PTI. Proudly, Owaisi presented on his phone the photograph of a big write-up in the local Deccan Chronicle newspaper after the day's play, with the score card. The report included a small photograph of the then clean-shaven Owaisi, his hair pasted on the scalp. Then he was chosen to represent South Zone inter-university Under-25 team, and participated in Vizzy Trophy, a country-wide level one-day competition for university sides, in 1994. But fate had it otherwise that he traveled to London to read law at Lincoln's Inn and "the cricketing chapter ended right there." He humbly rejects speculation that he might have achieved the top league if he had continued to play cricket, like other Hyderabadis Mohammad Azharuddin, Abid Ali, ML Jaisimha, Ghulam Hussain and VVS Laxman. To him, they were all-time greats and he was merely an average bowler "No no no! My name can't be compared with Azharuddin. He is a man who played 99 Tests. You can't compare me with Azharuddin. As a cricketer I salute him. As a politician I have quite a few differences with him," said Owaisi. He concurred with the argument that Indian cricket today has made the game democratic and provided opportunities for players from all sorts of backgrounds to reach the top, referencing the tale of pacer Mohammad Siraj. But it has to be made more democratic, he added. "See Mohammad Siraj today. Mashallah. Poor background boy. Through sheer hard work he made it and has achieved 100 Test wickets. Excellent journey. inspirational!. Hope that he plays extensively for India and brings many wins to India. 'We will miss his cover drive' He made rich tributes to Virat Kohli who this week dropped a bombshell by announcing his Test retirement.". "Astonishing player he is. We will always miss his cover drive. On the rise the manner in which he pulled over the head of the bowler! Arey great player is. Astonishing player is. "But there will be more Kohlis. It's not that we don't have talent in India," he signed off.

There will be more Kohli's, not like we don't have talent: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi

<p>Cricket is back as fans gear up for the business end of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, resuming Saturday (May 17) evening. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/kolkata-knight-riders" rel="dofollow">Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)</a> in a repeat of the tournament opener in Bengaluru. After being suspended for a week over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> resumed the tournament, with M Chinnaswamy staging the first game of the return leg.</p>
<p>The RCB and KKR will face off with plenty on the line. While the RCB sits at the second spot on the points table with 16 points from 11 contested matches, winning eight and losing three thus far, same as table-toppers Gujarat Titans (GT), KKR is languishing at the sixth place, with 11 points from 12 matches. Given their positions on the table, the RCB is well-placed to reach another playoff, this time under a new captain in Rajat Patidar.</p>
<p>On the other hand, KKR must win this game and the next to give themselves any chance of making the last four this year.</p>
<h2>IPL 2025 resumes</h2>
<p>After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals game was halted midway last Thursday (May 8) in Dharamsala, dark clouds began hovering over this edition&rsquo;s future, knowing what was happening near the border. Looking at everyone&rsquo;s safety and the prevailing tensions between the two countries, the BCCI suspended it for a week on May 9 (Friday).</p>
<p>Although India and Pakistan &lsquo;agreed to an understanding&rsquo; soon after, the whole episode gripped the foreign contingent with panic, with all leaving for their homes immediately.&nbsp;</p>
<p>After the situation eased out, the Indian Cricket Board released the revised schedule early this week, announcing that IPL 2025 will resume this Saturday and that all teams are requested to assemble their squads by Tuesday (May 13). The IPL 2025 final date also got pushed back to June 3 (Tuesday).&nbsp;</p>
<p>While most teams managed to do it by asking their overseas players to return, plenty decided against returning for several reasons.</p>
<h3>Who is missing RCB-KKR match?</h3>
<p>A few players across both camps decided against returning, including KKR&rsquo;s overseas pair of Moeen Ali and Rovman Powell. RCB seamer Josh Hazlewood also remains unavailable for selection because of a shoulder niggle, while his participation for the remainder of the tournament remains unclear due to international commitments.</p>
<p>However, in a massive boost for the hosts, RCB captain Rajat Patidar recovered from the finger injury he sustained earlier and is available for the side&rsquo;s marquee game against KKR.</p>
<h3>Here are the predicted XIs of both teams &ndash;</h3>
<p><strong>RCB -</strong> Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (captain), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Yash Dayal and Suyash Sharma</p>
<p><strong>KKR -</strong> Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Manish Pandey, Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana</p>

After being suspended for a week over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the BCCI resumed the tournament, with RCB hosting KKR in first game of the return leg. Sports, Cricket

Cricket is back as fans gear up for the business end of IPL 2025, resuming Saturday (May 17) evening. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) hosts Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a repeat of the tournament opener in Bengaluru. After being suspended for a week over escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the BCCI resumed the tournament, with M Chinnaswamy staging the first game of the return leg. The RCB and KKR will face off with plenty on the line. While the RCB sits at the second spot on the points table with 16 points from 11 contested matches, winning eight and losing three thus far, same as table-toppers Gujarat Titans (GT), KKR is languishing at the sixth place, with 11 points from 12 matches. Given their positions on the table, the RCB is well-placed to reach another playoff, this time under a new captain in Rajat Patidar. On the other hand, KKR must win this game and the next to give themselves any chance of making the last four this year. IPL 2025 resumes After the Punjab Kings vs Delhi Capitals game was halted midway last Thursday (May 8) in Dharamsala, dark clouds began hovering over this edition’s future, knowing what was happening near the border. Looking at everyone’s safety and the prevailing tensions between the two countries, the BCCI suspended it for a week on May 9 (Friday). Although India and Pakistan ‘agreed to an understanding’ soon after, the whole episode gripped the foreign contingent with panic, with all leaving for their homes immediately. After the situation eased out, the Indian Cricket Board released the revised schedule early this week, announcing that IPL 2025 will resume this Saturday and that all teams are requested to assemble their squads by Tuesday (May 13). The IPL 2025 final date also got pushed back to June 3 (Tuesday). While most teams managed to do it by asking their overseas players to return, plenty decided against returning for several reasons. Who is missing RCB-KKR match? A few players across both camps decided against returning, including KKR’s overseas pair of Moeen Ali and Rovman Powell. RCB seamer Josh Hazlewood also remains unavailable for selection because of a shoulder niggle, while his participation for the remainder of the tournament remains unclear due to international commitments. However, in a massive boost for the hosts, RCB captain Rajat Patidar recovered from the finger injury he sustained earlier and is available for the side’s marquee game against KKR. Here are the predicted XIs of both teams – RCB - Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (captain), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Yash Dayal and Suyash Sharma KKR - Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Sunil Narine, Ajinkya Rahane (captain), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Manish Pandey, Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana

IPL 2025 gets underway with blockbuster RCB vs KKR in Bengaluru. Here’s what we know

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, here's a look at 5 batters with the most runs for India against England in Tests also including Sunil Gavaskar and Rahul Dravid. Cricket | Sports | Photos

From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, 5 batters with the most runs for India against England in Tests

<p>As the IPL 2025 comes to its business end, anticipation is at an all-time high. Seven teams are still in contention to make it to the playoffs. As the IPL 2025 resumes after a delay, Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Kolkata Knight Riders in a bid to resume their race to the play-offs on Saturday (May 17).</p>
<p>Royal Challengers Bengaluru's turnaround has made them genuine title contenders, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suresh-raina">Suresh Raina</a> believes this might finally be their year. "They have hit 137 sixes at Chinnaswamy, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> has been in phenomenal form, and they have beaten CSK both home and away &ndash; that hasn&rsquo;t happened in 17 years. There&rsquo;s something different about them this season," he said. The combination of a fresh leadership setup and a vintage Kohli, playing with freedom, has changed the mood in the dressing room. &ldquo;With the way they are playing, I think the trophy could come to Bangalore,&rdquo; Raina added.</p>
<p>JioStar experts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/sunil-gavaskar">Sunil Gavaskar</a> and Suresh Raina spoke on Star Sports Press Room around the race to the play-offs and resumption of IPL 2025.</p>
<p>One player that has been the gamechanges for the RCB is Krunal Pandya. Sunil Gavaskar lauded him as and called him as a 'thinking cricketer' &ndash; someone who doesn&rsquo;t rely only on turn but uses his awareness of aspects of the game to outplay batters. "He&rsquo;s calm, tactical, and has played a key role, especially in games like the win over KKR at Eden Gardens. This is his best IPL season with the ball."</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sports-ipl-2025-mustafizur-rahman-granted-noc-by-bangladesh-cricket-board-set-to-join-delhi-capitals-9075976">IPL 2025: Mustafizur Rahman granted NOC by Bangladesh Cricket Board, set to join Delhi Capitals</a></strong></p>
<p>The playoffs race is as tight as ever, with seven teams still in contention. Gujarat leads the table, followed closely by RCB. MI, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, KKR, and LSG remain in the hunt, while CSK, SRH, and RR have all been eliminated. With net run rates likely to decide the final positions, teams are expected to play more aggressively in the final overs. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s not a marathon anymore &ndash; it&rsquo;s a 400-meter sprint,&rdquo; said Gavaskar. &ldquo;You&rsquo;ll see sides trying to finish games in 15 or 16 overs to boost their net run rates. The top two spots are gold dust.&rdquo;</p>
<h2>'Hardik is more calmer now'</h2>
<p>Mumbai Indians&rsquo; season has been a story of revival. After a sluggish start, Mumbai have stormed back into contention with six straight wins. Gavaskar observed a notable change in Hardik Pandya&rsquo;s demeanor: &ldquo;He&rsquo;s calmer now. His body language is positive. Even when catches are dropped, you don&rsquo;t see his frustration. That&rsquo;s made a difference in the team&rsquo;s atmosphere.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Punjab Kings have also surprised many with their fearless cricket, led by the Rickey Ponting-Shreyas Iyer duo. Raina credited the environment in the camp: &ldquo;Players like Prabhsimran, Priyansh Arya, and Shashank Singh are playing like seasoned pros. This is their best campaign since 2014.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Weather interruptions in the last couple of weeks have slightly altered the rhythm of the tournament. Gavaskar admitted that extended rain breaks can disrupt a player&rsquo;s momentum. &ldquo;Sometimes a batter is in the zone, and then there&rsquo;s a 30-minute delay. That can affect focus. But it also gives teams like Delhi or MI a chance to mentally regroup. So it&rsquo;s a double-edged sword.&rdquo;</p>
<p>As the 2025 season approaches its end, one emotional subplot has been MS Dhoni&rsquo;s possible farewell. With CSK eliminated, fans are bracing for what could be the final two appearances of &lsquo;Captain Cool&rsquo; in yellow. While Ruturaj Gaikwad has officially taken over the reins, Raina pointed out that Dhoni&rsquo;s influence remains as strong as ever. &ldquo;He might not be the official captain, but every field placement, every bowling change has his fingerprint on it.&rdquo;</p>

Royal Challengers Bengaluru are second in the table with 16 points from 11 matches played so far. The team has won eight matches and lost three | Sports, Cricket

As the IPL 2025 comes to its business end, anticipation is at an all-time high. Seven teams are still in contention to make it to the playoffs. As the IPL 2025 resumes after a delay, Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Kolkata Knight Riders in a bid to resume their race to the play-offs on Saturday (May 17). Royal Challengers Bengaluru's turnaround has made them genuine title contenders, and Suresh Raina believes this might finally be their year. "They have hit 137 sixes at Chinnaswamy, Virat Kohli has been in phenomenal form, and they have beaten CSK both home and away – that hasn’t happened in 17 years. There’s something different about them this season," he said. The combination of a fresh leadership setup and a vintage Kohli, playing with freedom, has changed the mood in the dressing room. “With the way they are playing, I think the trophy could come to Bangalore,” Raina added. JioStar experts Sunil Gavaskar and Suresh Raina spoke on Star Sports Press Room around the race to the play-offs and resumption of IPL 2025. One player that has been the gamechanges for the RCB is Krunal Pandya. Sunil Gavaskar lauded him as and called him as a 'thinking cricketer' – someone who doesn’t rely only on turn but uses his awareness of aspects of the game to outplay batters. "He’s calm, tactical, and has played a key role, especially in games like the win over KKR at Eden Gardens. This is his best IPL season with the ball." Also Read: IPL 2025: Mustafizur Rahman granted NOC by Bangladesh Cricket Board, set to join Delhi Capitals The playoffs race is as tight as ever, with seven teams still in contention. Gujarat leads the table, followed closely by RCB. MI, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, KKR, and LSG remain in the hunt, while CSK, SRH, and RR have all been eliminated. With net run rates likely to decide the final positions, teams are expected to play more aggressively in the final overs. “It’s not a marathon anymore – it’s a 400-meter sprint,” said Gavaskar. “You’ll see sides trying to finish games in 15 or 16 overs to boost their net run rates. The top two spots are gold dust.” 'Hardik is more calmer now' Mumbai Indians’ season has been a story of revival. After a sluggish start, Mumbai have stormed back into contention with six straight wins. Gavaskar observed a notable change in Hardik Pandya’s demeanor: “He’s calmer now. His body language is positive. Even when catches are dropped, you don’t see his frustration. That’s made a difference in the team’s atmosphere.” Punjab Kings have also surprised many with their fearless cricket, led by the Rickey Ponting-Shreyas Iyer duo. Raina credited the environment in the camp: “Players like Prabhsimran, Priyansh Arya, and Shashank Singh are playing like seasoned pros. This is their best campaign since 2014.” Weather interruptions in the last couple of weeks have slightly altered the rhythm of the tournament. Gavaskar admitted that extended rain breaks can disrupt a player’s momentum. “Sometimes a batter is in the zone, and then there’s a 30-minute delay. That can affect focus. But it also gives teams like Delhi or MI a chance to mentally regroup. So it’s a double-edged sword.” As the 2025 season approaches its end, one emotional subplot has been MS Dhoni’s possible farewell. With CSK eliminated, fans are bracing for what could be the final two appearances of ‘Captain Cool’ in yellow. While Ruturaj Gaikwad has officially taken over the reins, Raina pointed out that Dhoni’s influence remains as strong as ever. “He might not be the official captain, but every field placement, every bowling change has his fingerprint on it.”

IPL 2025: 'There is something different about Royal Challengers Bengaluru this season', says former CSK all-rounder

<p>What if Rohit Sharma had played that final Test in Sydney? Could India have drawn the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in Australia?&nbsp;</p>
<p>Former India head coach Ravi Shastri thinks so, and he's not keeping quiet about it. In a candid revelation, Shastri has spoken about an emotional chat with Rohit, just days before the skipper announced his retirement from Test cricket. Shastri believed he would have backed Rohit to play the final Test against Australia in Sydney as the series was on line.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rohit-sharma-announces-retirement-from-test-cricket-9045477" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rohit Sharma decided to retire from red-ball cricket</a> after a tough tour of Australia, where India lost the BGT by 3-1. The 38-year-old opener had a poor run with the bat and didn&rsquo;t feature in the crucial Sydney Test.</p>
<p>Speaking on The ICC Review with host <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=sanjana+ganesan" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sanjana Ganesan</a>, Shastri revealed what he told Rohit during an IPL match in Mumbai, &ldquo;I think it was in Mumbai and told him, if I was coach you would have never not played that last Test match. You would have played that last Test match because the series wasn't over.&rdquo;</p>
<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-west-indies-asks-for-fair-representation-at-la28-olympic-games-9075026" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Cricket West Indies asks for 'fair' representation at LA28 Olympic games</a></strong></p>
<h2>Rohit had Test cricket left in him</h2>
<p>Shastri, known for his aggressive style, felt Rohit still had something to offer in that final game. &ldquo;And I'm not someone who threw in the towel with the scoreline 2-1. If your mindset is you feel you are&hellip; that's not the stage, you leave a team.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Rohit had missed the first Test due to personal reasons and scored just 31 runs in three matches. His form had dipped for a while and he averaged only 10.93 in his last eight Tests, crossing the fifty-run mark just once.</p>
<p>Still, Shastri believed Rohit&rsquo;s presence could have made a difference.&nbsp;&ldquo;That was a 30-40 run game&hellip; The pitch was so spicy in Sydney. Whatever kind of form he was in, he's a match-winner,&rdquo; he said.</p>
<p>&ldquo;If he had gone, sensed the situation, sensed the condition and smashed it for even 35-40 at the top, you never know. That series would have been level.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Rohit&rsquo;s retirement comes at a time of big change in Indian Test cricket. Just recently, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/virat-kohli-announces-retirement-from-test-cricket-9059470" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Virat Kohli also stepped away from the red-ball format.</a> With both stalwarts gone, Indian Test cricket now enters a new era where the absence of the iconic duo will surely be felt.</p>

Speaking on The ICC Review, Shastri revealed what he told Rohit during an IPL match in Mumbai, “I think it was in Mumbai and told him, if I was coach you would have never not played that last Test match. ” Cricket | Sports

What if Rohit Sharma had played that final Test in Sydney? Could India have drawn the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in Australia? Former India head coach Ravi Shastri thinks so, and he's not keeping quiet about it. In a candid revelation, Shastri has spoken about an emotional chat with Rohit, just days before the skipper announced his retirement from Test cricket. Shastri believed he would have backed Rohit to play the final Test against Australia in Sydney as the series was on line. Rohit Sharma decided to retire from red-ball cricket after a tough tour of Australia, where India lost the BGT by 3-1. The 38-year-old opener had a poor run with the bat and didn’t feature in the crucial Sydney Test. Speaking on The ICC Review with host Sanjana Ganesan, Shastri revealed what he told Rohit during an IPL match in Mumbai, “I think it was in Mumbai and told him, if I was coach you would have never not played that last Test match. You would have played that last Test match because the series wasn't over.” Also Read | Cricket West Indies asks for 'fair' representation at LA28 Olympic games Rohit had Test cricket left in him Shastri, known for his aggressive style, felt Rohit still had something to offer in that final game. “And I'm not someone who threw in the towel with the scoreline 2-1. If your mindset is you feel you are… that's not the stage, you leave a team.” Rohit had missed the first Test due to personal reasons and scored just 31 runs in three matches. His form had dipped for a while and he averaged only 10.93 in his last eight Tests, crossing the fifty-run mark just once. Still, Shastri believed Rohit’s presence could have made a difference. “That was a 30-40 run game… The pitch was so spicy in Sydney. Whatever kind of form he was in, he's a match-winner,” he said. “If he had gone, sensed the situation, sensed the condition and smashed it for even 35-40 at the top, you never know. That series would have been level.” Rohit’s retirement comes at a time of big change in Indian Test cricket. Just recently, Virat Kohli also stepped away from the red-ball format. With both stalwarts gone, Indian Test cricket now enters a new era where the absence of the iconic duo will surely be felt.

'If I was coach you would have never...': Ravi Shastri's words on Rohit Sharma's Test retirement

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/virat-kohli-announces-retirement-from-test-cricket-9059470" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli announced his Test retirement</a> last week on social media, breaking the internet. While millions continue to comment on his Instagram post, which now has countless likes, his former Team India head coach and a close ally, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ravi-shastri" rel="dofollow">Ravi Shastri</a>, disclosed his chat with batting great a week before his retirement call.</p>
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<p>Having worked with Kohli in different capacities before, Shastri knows a thing or two more about the modern-day great. Detailing what Kohli said to him before going public with his call, Shastri revealed Virat was clear (in his head) about his decision, adding there was no two ways about it.&nbsp;Shastri continued that Kohli has no regrets about retiring from Tests and that he gave it all in this format.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, the batting genius made his Test debut in 2011 and went on to play 123 matches, scoring 9230 runs at an average above 46. He completed 30 centuries and seven double hundreds, besides breaking plenty of records as a batter and captain.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-2025-cricket-no-gill-rahul-or-pant-as-ravi-ashwin-throws-weight-behind-seasoned-duo-for-indias-test-captaincy-ravindra-jadeja-jasprit-bumrah-9074186" rel="dofollow">No Gill, Rahul or Pant as Ravi Ashwin throws weight behind &lsquo;seasoned duo&rsquo; for India&rsquo;s Test captaincy</a></strong></p>
<p>"I did speak to him about it [his announcement], I think a week before that, and his mind was very clear that he'd given us everything," Shastri said on The ICC Review.&nbsp;</p>
<p>"There were no regrets. There were one or two questions I asked, and that's a personal conversation which, you know, he mentioned very clearly, there were no doubts in his mind, which made me think, 'Yes, the time is right'. The mind has told his body that it's time to go.</p>
<p>"He doesn't have regrets. Ideally, everyone might want [him] to carry on. But then, he looks at the bigger picture. He feels he can contribute massively in the one-day game. There's a lot of franchise cricket left for him in his life. The reason I think he will not have regrets is because he gave his everything," Shastri continued.</p>
<h2>He&rsquo;s dedicated, but burnout fear loomed</h2>
<p>Shastri explained what it is like to be Virat Kohli.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-test-retirement-even-eclipses-sachin-on-cultural-influence-ian-chappells-huge-praise-for-giant-9061956" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli even eclipses Sachin on cultural influence - Ian Chappell&rsquo;s huge praise for Test giant</a></strong></p>
<p>"Individually, as a bowler, as a batsman, a player does his job, [and] then you sit back, " Shastri said. "But [with Kohli] when the team goes out, it's as if he has to take all the wickets, he has to take all the catches, he has to make all the decisions on the field.</p>
<p>"That much involvement, I would think there's going to be a burnout somewhere if he doesn't take a rest if he doesn't compartmentalise how much he wants to play across formats, there is bound to be a burnout. Well, it's happened now, and he's pulled out of Test cricket. Unfortunately, because I still think he could have played two [more] years, but he's the boss. If his mind tells him that is enough, it's enough,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Kohli will continue to play the One-Dayers and franchise cricket for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL.&nbsp;</p>

Detailing what Kohli said to him before going public with his call, Shastri revealed Virat was clear (in his head) about his decision, adding there was no two ways about it. Sports, Cricket

Virat Kohli announced his Test retirement last week on social media, breaking the internet. While millions continue to comment on his Instagram post, which now has countless likes, his former Team India head coach and a close ally, Ravi Shastri, disclosed his chat with batting great a week before his retirement call. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli) Having worked with Kohli in different capacities before, Shastri knows a thing or two more about the modern-day great. Detailing what Kohli said to him before going public with his call, Shastri revealed Virat was clear (in his head) about his decision, adding there was no two ways about it. Shastri continued that Kohli has no regrets about retiring from Tests and that he gave it all in this format. Meanwhile, the batting genius made his Test debut in 2011 and went on to play 123 matches, scoring 9230 runs at an average above 46. He completed 30 centuries and seven double hundreds, besides breaking plenty of records as a batter and captain. Also read | No Gill, Rahul or Pant as Ravi Ashwin throws weight behind ‘seasoned duo’ for India’s Test captaincy "I did speak to him about it [his announcement], I think a week before that, and his mind was very clear that he'd given us everything," Shastri said on The ICC Review. "There were no regrets. There were one or two questions I asked, and that's a personal conversation which, you know, he mentioned very clearly, there were no doubts in his mind, which made me think, 'Yes, the time is right'. The mind has told his body that it's time to go. "He doesn't have regrets. Ideally, everyone might want [him] to carry on. But then, he looks at the bigger picture. He feels he can contribute massively in the one-day game. There's a lot of franchise cricket left for him in his life. The reason I think he will not have regrets is because he gave his everything," Shastri continued. He’s dedicated, but burnout fear loomed Shastri explained what it is like to be Virat Kohli. Also read | Virat Kohli even eclipses Sachin on cultural influence - Ian Chappell’s huge praise for Test giant "Individually, as a bowler, as a batsman, a player does his job, [and] then you sit back, " Shastri said. "But [with Kohli] when the team goes out, it's as if he has to take all the wickets, he has to take all the catches, he has to make all the decisions on the field. "That much involvement, I would think there's going to be a burnout somewhere if he doesn't take a rest if he doesn't compartmentalise how much he wants to play across formats, there is bound to be a burnout. Well, it's happened now, and he's pulled out of Test cricket. Unfortunately, because I still think he could have played two [more] years, but he's the boss. If his mind tells him that is enough, it's enough,” he continued. Meanwhile, Kohli will continue to play the One-Dayers and franchise cricket for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL.

Ex-India coach reveals chat with Virat Kohli before his Test retirement, says 'he has no regrets'

From Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni, here's a look at 6 batters to play most IPL matches for single franchise also featuring Rohit Sharma, Sunil Narine and Ravindra Jadeja. Cricket | Sports | Photos

From Virat Kohli to MS Dhoni, 6 batters to play most IPL matches for single franchise

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at six batters with the most runs against a single IPL opponent also featuring David Warner. Cricket | Sports | Photos

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, batters with the most runs against a single IPL opponent

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