Virat Kohli is following in the footsteps of Rohit Sharma and has expressed the desire to retire from Test cricket, according to reports. He has informed Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about his intentions, and that he would like to finalise things before the tour of England, which begins on 20 June. However, the board is trying to convince him to reconsider the decision.
Reports suggest that Virat reached out to the board a few days back. If he goes ahead with it, Virat won't be available for the five-match Test series in England. A senior BCCI official is in talks with the cricketer to stay, especially since Sharma has also hung up his boots.
Rohit quit Test cricket with immediate effect. The selection committee is expected to pick the squad for the the Test series in England some time towards the end of May. It would mark the beginning of a new World Test Championship cycle for India.&nbsp;
Notably, both Rohit and Virat bid adieu to T20 internationals after India won the World Cup in Barbados last year.&nbsp;
Kohli didn't taste much success in the 2024-25 Test season. He had a particularly abysmal run during the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test series. Kohli managed to score just 186 runs across five Tests. Of these, 100 came in the first Test in Perth, while he hit a measly 86 over the next four Test. Notably, he is the fifth-highest run-getter in the history of the Border-Gavaskar series.
In the last five years, he has scored only 1,990 runs in 37 games with just three hundreds.
Kohli recently opened up about his struggles. &nbsp;&ldquo;Once you start taking on the energy and the disappointment from the outside, then you start burdening yourself way more&hellip; And then you start thinking about things, like &lsquo;I&rsquo;ve got two or three days left on this tour, I need to make an impact now&rsquo;. And you start getting more desperate. That&rsquo;s something I&rsquo;ve surely experienced in Australia as well," he said at an RCB event in March.
Kohli has played 123 Tests and scored 9,230 runs, including 30 centuries.

Reports suggest that Virat reached out to the board a few days back. If he goes ahead with it, Virat won't be available for the five-match Test series in England. Cricket Sports

Virat Kohli is following in the footsteps of Rohit Sharma and has expressed the desire to retire from Test cricket, according to reports. He has informed Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about his intentions, and that he would like to finalise things before the tour of England, which begins on 20 June. However, the board is trying to convince him to reconsider the decision. Reports suggest that Virat reached out to the board a few days back. If he goes ahead with it, Virat won't be available for the five-match Test series in England. A senior BCCI official is in talks with the cricketer to stay, especially since Sharma has also hung up his boots. Rohit quit Test cricket with immediate effect. The selection committee is expected to pick the squad for the the Test series in England some time towards the end of May. It would mark the beginning of a new World Test Championship cycle for India. Notably, both Rohit and Virat bid adieu to T20 internationals after India won the World Cup in Barbados last year. Kohli didn't taste much success in the 2024-25 Test season. He had a particularly abysmal run during the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test series. Kohli managed to score just 186 runs across five Tests. Of these, 100 came in the first Test in Perth, while he hit a measly 86 over the next four Test. Notably, he is the fifth-highest run-getter in the history of the Border-Gavaskar series. In the last five years, he has scored only 1,990 runs in 37 games with just three hundreds. Kohli recently opened up about his struggles. “Once you start taking on the energy and the disappointment from the outside, then you start burdening yourself way more… And then you start thinking about things, like ‘I’ve got two or three days left on this tour, I need to make an impact now’. And you start getting more desperate. That’s something I’ve surely experienced in Australia as well," he said at an RCB event in March. Kohli has played 123 Tests and scored 9,230 runs, including 30 centuries.

Virat Kohli tells BCCI he wants to quit Test cricket, board urges him to reconsider

India&rsquo;s two cricketing legends, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=VIRAT+KOHLI" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=ROHIT+SHARMA" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank"> Rohit Sharma</a>, have come forward to salute the bravery of the Indian Armed Forces as the country faces a tense situation with Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terrorist attack and the launch of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/large-number-of-terrorists-killed-in-operation-sindoor-says-indias-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-9048242" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Operation Sindoor,</a> a strong counter-terror move by India.
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Virat, Rohit applaud Indian Armed Forces</h2>
In a powerful Instagram story on Friday (9 May), Virat Kohli wrote, &ldquo;We stand in solidarity with, and salute our armed forces for fiercely protecting our country in these difficult times. We are forever indebted to our heroes for their unwavering bravery&hellip; JAI HIND.&rdquo;
<figure class="image"><img alt="Virat Kohli insta" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/09/RFiG8eS2mbnaZpQd9Qx8.png" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Photograph: (Instagram/ @virat.kohli)</figcaption>
</figure>
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sports-indo-pak-war-bcci-suspends-ipl-2025-midway-prioritises-player-safety-amid-rising-tensions-9050817" rel="dofollow">Indo-Pak war: BCCI suspends IPL 2025 midway, prioritises player safety amid rising tensions - Report</a>
Just a day earlier (8 May), Indian ODI team captain Rohit Sharma freshly after announcing his retirement from Test cricket, shared a heartfelt message on X. &ldquo;With every passing moment, with every decision taken, I feel extremely proud of our Indian Army, Indian Air Force &amp; Indian Navy,&rdquo; he posted. &ldquo;Our warriors are standing tall for our nation&rsquo;s pride. It&rsquo;s important for every Indian to be responsible and refrain from spreading or believing any fake news. Stay safe, everyone! #OperationSindoor #JaiHind.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-magjjim9-wjcs9ouf-sqxesu8t">
With every passing moment, with every decision taken I feel extremely proud of our Indian Army, Indian Airforce &amp; Indian Navy. Our warriors are standing tall for our nation&rsquo;s pride. It&rsquo;s important for every Indian to be responsible and refrain from spreading or believing any fake&hellip;
&mdash; Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRo45/status/1920713954155770273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
Their words come in the wake of Operation Sindoor, a major retaliatory strike by India that targeted nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK), following the Pahalgam attack that shook the nation.
In these critical times, Kohli and Sharma's powerful voices have reminded the nation of its unity and support for the armed forces, showing that sports and armed forces can stand together when it matters most.

India’s two cricketing legends, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, have come forward to salute the bravery of the Indian Armed Forces as the country faces a tense situation with Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terrorist attack. India News Cricket Sports

India’s two cricketing legends, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, have come forward to salute the bravery of the Indian Armed Forces as the country faces a tense situation with Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terrorist attack and the launch of Operation Sindoor, a strong counter-terror move by India. Virat, Rohit applaud Indian Armed Forces In a powerful Instagram story on Friday (9 May), Virat Kohli wrote, “We stand in solidarity with, and salute our armed forces for fiercely protecting our country in these difficult times. We are forever indebted to our heroes for their unwavering bravery… JAI HIND.” Photograph: (Instagram/ @virat.kohli) Also Read | Indo-Pak war: BCCI suspends IPL 2025 midway, prioritises player safety amid rising tensions - Report Just a day earlier (8 May), Indian ODI team captain Rohit Sharma freshly after announcing his retirement from Test cricket, shared a heartfelt message on X. “With every passing moment, with every decision taken, I feel extremely proud of our Indian Army, Indian Air Force & Indian Navy,” he posted. “Our warriors are standing tall for our nation’s pride. It’s important for every Indian to be responsible and refrain from spreading or believing any fake news. Stay safe, everyone! #OperationSindoor #JaiHind.” With every passing moment, with every decision taken I feel extremely proud of our Indian Army, Indian Airforce & Indian Navy. Our warriors are standing tall for our nation’s pride. It’s important for every Indian to be responsible and refrain from spreading or believing any fake… — Rohit Sharma (@ImRo45) May 9, 2025 Their words come in the wake of Operation Sindoor, a major retaliatory strike by India that targeted nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK), following the Pahalgam attack that shook the nation. In these critical times, Kohli and Sharma's powerful voices have reminded the nation of its unity and support for the armed forces, showing that sports and armed forces can stand together when it matters most.

Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma applaud Indian Armed Forces amid border tensions with Pakistan

Here's a look at 5 Players who can succeed Rohit Sharma as new Test captain featuring Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Cricket | Sports | Photos

5 Players who can succeed Rohit Sharma as new Test captain - one name will shock you

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Virat Kohli has made a shocking revelation in the latest podcast, leaving the cricketing fraternity baffled. Now in his 18th Indian Premier League (IPL) season with the South Indian franchise, Virat opened up on the thought of leaving the RCB. He also opened up on the workload he had as the captain of the franchise, while he also led the Indian Cricket Team from 2015 to 2021. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Virat makes a shocking revelation<o:p></o:p></h2>
"I wouldn't say I was tempted, but I did think about it. I asked myself, 'What is more valuable to me?' I&rsquo;ve won a lot of things for India, I&rsquo;ve earned a lot of accolades,&rdquo; the former RCB captain said while speaking to Mayanti Langer in the latest RCB podcast. <o:p></o:p>
"So I had to make a decision: do I want to go into a new setup and figure things out again? That&rsquo;s when I realised that the relationship I&rsquo;ve built here is more valuable &mdash; and so is the mutual respect that&rsquo;s developed over so many years. Now, I&rsquo;m just going to see it through. Whether we win or not, it&rsquo;s fine. This is my home,&rdquo; Kohli added.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sports-ipl-2025-playoffs-scenario-rcb-pbks-in-pole-position-as-mi-gt-and-others-fight-for-last-four-spots-9038778" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 Playoffs scenario: RCB, PBKS in pole position as MI, GT and others fight for top four spots</a>
Now in his 18th season, Kohli remains a one-club man, having featured for RCB in all seasons, despite the franchise&rsquo;s failure to win the IPL title. He has scored more than 8000 runs while also holding the record for most hundreds in the competition&rsquo;s history. <o:p></o:p>
Despite a lack of trophies, he has remained loyal to the South India side and could be rewarded for it. At the time of writing, Kohli&rsquo;s RCB has 16 points and have one foot in the Playoffs of IPL 2025. If they are successful in winning the IPL, it will be the veteran&rsquo;s first, having been runner-up on three previous occasions. He also famously lost the now-abolished Champions League final on two occasions.<o:p></o:p>

Now in his 18th Indian Premier League (IPL) season with the South Indian franchise, Virat Kohli opened up on the thought of leaving the RCB. India News | Cricket | Sports

Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Virat Kohli has made a shocking revelation in the latest podcast, leaving the cricketing fraternity baffled. Now in his 18th Indian Premier League (IPL) season with the South Indian franchise, Virat opened up on the thought of leaving the RCB. He also opened up on the workload he had as the captain of the franchise, while he also led the Indian Cricket Team from 2015 to 2021. Virat makes a shocking revelation "I wouldn't say I was tempted, but I did think about it. I asked myself, 'What is more valuable to me?' I’ve won a lot of things for India, I’ve earned a lot of accolades,” the former RCB captain said while speaking to Mayanti Langer in the latest RCB podcast. "So I had to make a decision: do I want to go into a new setup and figure things out again? That’s when I realised that the relationship I’ve built here is more valuable — and so is the mutual respect that’s developed over so many years. Now, I’m just going to see it through. Whether we win or not, it’s fine. This is my home,” Kohli added. ALSO READ | IPL 2025 Playoffs scenario: RCB, PBKS in pole position as MI, GT and others fight for top four spots Now in his 18th season, Kohli remains a one-club man, having featured for RCB in all seasons, despite the franchise’s failure to win the IPL title. He has scored more than 8000 runs while also holding the record for most hundreds in the competition’s history. Despite a lack of trophies, he has remained loyal to the South India side and could be rewarded for it. At the time of writing, Kohli’s RCB has 16 points and have one foot in the Playoffs of IPL 2025. If they are successful in winning the IPL, it will be the veteran’s first, having been runner-up on three previous occasions. He also famously lost the now-abolished Champions League final on two occasions.

'I did think about leaving RCB': Virat Kohli makes shocking revelation

Here's a look at 6 Players with most catches in IPL history ft Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, Kieron Pollard, Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. Cricket | Sports | Photos

6 Players with most catches in IPL history

Here we look at the top six batting pairs in the Indian Premier League (IPL) history with the most century-plus stands. Photos Sports Cricket

From Kohli-Gayle to Kohli-Faf, 6 batting pairs with most century-plus stands in IPL history

From KL Rahul to Virat Kohli here's a look at five batters to score fastest 5000 IPL runs including David Warner, AB de Villiers and Shikhar Dhawan. Cricket | Sports | Photos

From KL Rahul to Virat Kohli five batters to score fastest 5000 IPL runs

Ahead of the India vs England Test series starting in June 2025, let's look at the top 5 moments from the India vs England Test series of 2018. Cricket Sports Photos

5 Epic moments from India vs England Test series 2018

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) opener <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> hit a half-century against the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chennai-super-kings">Chennai Super Kings</a> (CSK) as RCB registered a thrilling two-run win on Saturday in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Kohli displayed his aggressive nature from the first ball itself, and sent out a message by smashing CSK fast bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/khaleel-ahmed">Khaleel Ahmed</a> for consecutive sixes in the third over of the match. It also enabled Kohli to complete his pre-match prophecy, as he had warned Khaleel during an altercation from the first time these two sides met.
On March 28, during the first encounter between CSK and RCB in IPL 2025, bowler Khaleel Ahmed had begun celebrating the wicket of Virat Kohli despite the latter not having been given out.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
KING REMEMBERS! 😁 Come for Virat 🆚 MSD, stay for Virat 🆚 Khaleel too! 🍿 Watch the LIVE action ➡ <a href="https://t.co/dl97nUeINj">https://t.co/dl97nUeINj</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLonJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLonJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvCSK</a> | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 2 Hindi &amp; JioHotstar! <a href="https://t.co/khdozY9jMg">pic.twitter.com/khdozY9jMg</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1918676811405197507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Subsequent to that, Kohli had apparently jokingly warned the pacer that he would give him the treatment on the field the next time they see each other.
"Ab tu aa (You come once again)," Kohli had said to Khaleel, implying that he would not give the pacer a free pass the next time they encounter each other.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-1/f1-red-bulls-max-verstappen-takes-pole-position-for-miami-grand-prix-9031070">F1: Red Bull's Max Verstappen takes pole position for Miami Grand Prix</a>
Kohli's performance on Saturday ensured that his prophecy came true. The 36-year-old clobbered Khaleel for two consecutive sixes to finish off the third over of RCB's innings.
<h2>A day to forget for Khaleel</h2>
It was a day to forget for Khaleel. In his two overs in the powerplay, he was slammed for 32 runs by Kohli and Jacob Bethell. However, his misery was compiled at the end when RCB finisher Romario Shepherd smashed 33 runs off him, to complete the most expensive over in IPL 2025.
Khaleel was smashed for two sixes and two boundaries in the over by Shepherd, who went on to hit the joint-second-fastest half-century in IPL history, courtesy his 14-ball 53.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
He said it, he did it. 🙌✅<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> launches a couple into the stands off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KhaleelAhmed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KhaleelAhmed</a>&rsquo;s bowling! The KING remembers &amp; strikes back! 👑🔥 Watch the LIVE action ➡ <a href="https://t.co/dl97nUeINj">https://t.co/dl97nUeINj</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLonJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLonJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvCSK</a> | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/TaxGW3TofA">pic.twitter.com/TaxGW3TofA</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1918675863123427443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Shepherd's innings saw RCB go past the 200-run mark, and ensured that they posted a total of 213/5 in 20 overs. The total proved sufficient as CSK fell just short by two runs.
Khaleel has enjoyed a good season despite his team's poor form, taking 14 wickets in 11 matches. RCB have won six away games in IPL 2025, and have now won two on the trot at home at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

India News, Sports: Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Virat Kohli smashed a half-century against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as RCB pulled out a two-run win

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) opener Virat Kohli hit a half-century against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as RCB registered a thrilling two-run win on Saturday in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Kohli displayed his aggressive nature from the first ball itself, and sent out a message by smashing CSK fast bowler Khaleel Ahmed for consecutive sixes in the third over of the match. It also enabled Kohli to complete his pre-match prophecy, as he had warned Khaleel during an altercation from the first time these two sides met. On March 28, during the first encounter between CSK and RCB in IPL 2025, bowler Khaleel Ahmed had begun celebrating the wicket of Virat Kohli despite the latter not having been given out. KING REMEMBERS! 😁 Come for Virat 🆚 MSD, stay for Virat 🆚 Khaleel too! 🍿 Watch the LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/dl97nUeINj #IPLonJioStar 👉 #RCBvCSK | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 2 Hindi & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/khdozY9jMg — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 3, 2025 Subsequent to that, Kohli had apparently jokingly warned the pacer that he would give him the treatment on the field the next time they see each other. "Ab tu aa (You come once again)," Kohli had said to Khaleel, implying that he would not give the pacer a free pass the next time they encounter each other. Also Read: F1: Red Bull's Max Verstappen takes pole position for Miami Grand Prix Kohli's performance on Saturday ensured that his prophecy came true. The 36-year-old clobbered Khaleel for two consecutive sixes to finish off the third over of RCB's innings. A day to forget for Khaleel It was a day to forget for Khaleel. In his two overs in the powerplay, he was slammed for 32 runs by Kohli and Jacob Bethell. However, his misery was compiled at the end when RCB finisher Romario Shepherd smashed 33 runs off him, to complete the most expensive over in IPL 2025. Khaleel was smashed for two sixes and two boundaries in the over by Shepherd, who went on to hit the joint-second-fastest half-century in IPL history, courtesy his 14-ball 53. He said it, he did it. 🙌✅#ViratKohli launches a couple into the stands off #KhaleelAhmed’s bowling! The KING remembers & strikes back! 👑🔥 Watch the LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/dl97nUeINj #IPLonJioStar 👉 #RCBvCSK | LIVE NOW on Star Sports 1, Star Sports 1 Hindi, Star… pic.twitter.com/TaxGW3TofA — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 3, 2025 Shepherd's innings saw RCB go past the 200-run mark, and ensured that they posted a total of 213/5 in 20 overs. The total proved sufficient as CSK fell just short by two runs. Khaleel has enjoyed a good season despite his team's poor form, taking 14 wickets in 11 matches. RCB have won six away games in IPL 2025, and have now won two on the trot at home at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

IPL 2025: 'Will show you now', Kohli makes good on his words, turns up the heat on Khaleel-WATCH

In today&rsquo;s sociotechnical world, the line between public and private life has become increasingly blurred &mdash; especially for celebrities. The recent incident involving Indian cricket star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> and Bollywood actress <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/avneet-kaur">Avneet Kaur</a> is a perfect example of how we, as a society, often overstep that line in the name of curiosity and entertainment.
What started as a passing social media exchange &mdash; Kohli reportedly liking Avneet Kaur's &mdash; escalated into a full-blown online storm. Speculations, theories, and unwarranted conclusions soon followed. Kaur's presence at an ICC <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy">Champions Trophy</a> match only fueled the rumor further, with some attributing her presence to another cricketer. And just like that, an entire narrative was fabricated from what amounts to&hellip; essentially nothing.
Let&rsquo;s take a step back and ask: Why was this a big deal?
When Kohli broke his silence about the incident, he said it was a basic glitch. By that time, however, damage had been done. Avneet Kaur, who had not even uttered a word regarding the issue, became the talk of the town. She was either being tattletaled about romantically or criticised for trying to make headlines. None of these things is justified. And none of these should be normalised.
<h2>Virat's Instagram story after incident:</h2>
<figure class="image"><img alt="Virat Kohli Instagram story" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/603x616/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/05/03/g0OU21y37eBogtyflB0d.png" style="width: 603px;">
<figcaption>Virat Kohli Instagram story Photograph: (Instagram)</figcaption>
</figure>
At the root of this debate is a greater concern: Our growing comfort level with snooping on individuals' personal lives, particularly if those individuals are celebrities. Somehow, a great number of fans assume that fame somehow gives the public the right to look into every aspect of their life. But adoration should not be translated as intrusion. Just because someone is famous doesn't mean they need to explain to us every click, sighting, or snippet of their life.&nbsp;
There's also the toxic culture of assumptions we create online. An <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/instagram">Instagram</a> like is now a statement of intent. A public sighting close to another celebrity must be implying a relationship. We are too hasty to link non-existent dots, and too often we do so without even thinking about the emotional and reputational fallout for the people involved. Worse still, this speculative activity is too often framed as entertainment or fandom.
Kohli and Kaur, like everyone else, have complete control over their actions, relationships, and online presence. They can associate with whoever they please, go wherever they please, and say whatever they please without their lives being read as if every movement has some ulterior motive. The fact that we still scramble to analyse these mundane actions as newsworthy occurrences is an issue.
In an era of never-ending content and continuous updates, perhaps it's time to make letting go the new normal. Perhaps a liked post is simply that &mdash; a liked post. Perhaps two individuals attending the same location doesn't have to spark a thousand articles. Perhaps, people should be allowed to live their lives without the rest of us making it into a production.
Let's not create something out of nothing. Let's give others the space they are entitled to. Most importantly, let's not forget that being privy to someone's public life does not entitle us to redo their personal one.
Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Opinions & Blogs: Just because someone is famous, it doesn't mean they need to explain to us every click, sighting, or snippet of their life

In today’s sociotechnical world, the line between public and private life has become increasingly blurred — especially for celebrities. The recent incident involving Indian cricket star Virat Kohli and Bollywood actress Avneet Kaur is a perfect example of how we, as a society, often overstep that line in the name of curiosity and entertainment. What started as a passing social media exchange — Kohli reportedly liking Avneet Kaur's — escalated into a full-blown online storm. Speculations, theories, and unwarranted conclusions soon followed. Kaur's presence at an ICC Champions Trophy match only fueled the rumor further, with some attributing her presence to another cricketer. And just like that, an entire narrative was fabricated from what amounts to… essentially nothing. Let’s take a step back and ask: Why was this a big deal? When Kohli broke his silence about the incident, he said it was a basic glitch. By that time, however, damage had been done. Avneet Kaur, who had not even uttered a word regarding the issue, became the talk of the town. She was either being tattletaled about romantically or criticised for trying to make headlines. None of these things is justified. And none of these should be normalised. Virat's Instagram story after incident: Virat Kohli Instagram story Photograph: (Instagram) At the root of this debate is a greater concern: Our growing comfort level with snooping on individuals' personal lives, particularly if those individuals are celebrities. Somehow, a great number of fans assume that fame somehow gives the public the right to look into every aspect of their life. But adoration should not be translated as intrusion. Just because someone is famous doesn't mean they need to explain to us every click, sighting, or snippet of their life. There's also the toxic culture of assumptions we create online. An Instagram like is now a statement of intent. A public sighting close to another celebrity must be implying a relationship. We are too hasty to link non-existent dots, and too often we do so without even thinking about the emotional and reputational fallout for the people involved. Worse still, this speculative activity is too often framed as entertainment or fandom. Kohli and Kaur, like everyone else, have complete control over their actions, relationships, and online presence. They can associate with whoever they please, go wherever they please, and say whatever they please without their lives being read as if every movement has some ulterior motive. The fact that we still scramble to analyse these mundane actions as newsworthy occurrences is an issue. In an era of never-ending content and continuous updates, perhaps it's time to make letting go the new normal. Perhaps a liked post is simply that — a liked post. Perhaps two individuals attending the same location doesn't have to spark a thousand articles. Perhaps, people should be allowed to live their lives without the rest of us making it into a production. Let's not create something out of nothing. Let's give others the space they are entitled to. Most importantly, let's not forget that being privy to someone's public life does not entitle us to redo their personal one. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The price of being Virat Kohli: He must justify every activity, even a 'like' on Instagram

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma here's a look at six batters with most IPL runs in losing cause also including Shikhar Dhawan, David Warner and Dinesh Karthik. Cricket | Sports | Photos

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma six batters with most IPL runs in losing cause

Star India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli has revealed who helped him shape his career in early days when starting out in IPL and for India. Kohli made the comments on RCB podcast and some of those videos have been shared on RCB's social media handle X.
"Out of all players I played with initially, Boucher had the biggest impact on me. He figured out what my weaknesses could be, If I wanted to go to the next level, this is what I need to do, without me asking him anything. He told me that 'when I came to commentate in India three-four years from now and I do not see you playing for India, you would do a disservice to yourself. So he really stunned me with the conversations he had with me," said Kohli in the video.
Also Read - <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-ex-csk-batter-blasts-rajasthan-royals-auction-choices-after-poor-season-9026485" aria-label="IPL 2025 | Ex-CSK batter blasts Rajasthan Royals' auction choices after poor season">IPL 2025 | Ex-CSK batter blasts Rajasthan Royals' auction choices after poor season</a>
Bucher played in IPL for four seasons from 2007 to 20011 and the first three seasons with the RCB when Kohli was young and trying to make his mark.
Virat definitely took Boucher's advice and is now known has one of the best players ever to play the game of cricket. In IPL, he has the most runs in history of the tournament but no trophy though.
Kohli, who has played for RCB since the inception of IPL, however, has been grateful for the love fans have showered him with over all these years.
"The love that I have received from the fans, I do not think any silverware or any trophy can come close to that," he added.
In the ongoing season, Kohli has scored 443 runs in 10 innings - the most for RCB as they sit second on the points table and look certain to make it to the playoffs.&nbsp;

Kohli, who has played for RCB since the inception of IPL, however, has been grateful for the love fans have showered him with over all these years. Cricket Sports

Star India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli has revealed who helped him shape his career in early days when starting out in IPL and for India. Kohli made the comments on RCB podcast and some of those videos have been shared on RCB's social media handle X. "Out of all players I played with initially, Boucher had the biggest impact on me. He figured out what my weaknesses could be, If I wanted to go to the next level, this is what I need to do, without me asking him anything. He told me that 'when I came to commentate in India three-four years from now and I do not see you playing for India, you would do a disservice to yourself. So he really stunned me with the conversations he had with me," said Kohli in the video. Also Read - IPL 2025 | Ex-CSK batter blasts Rajasthan Royals' auction choices after poor season Bucher played in IPL for four seasons from 2007 to 20011 and the first three seasons with the RCB when Kohli was young and trying to make his mark. Virat definitely took Boucher's advice and is now known has one of the best players ever to play the game of cricket. In IPL, he has the most runs in history of the tournament but no trophy though. Kohli, who has played for RCB since the inception of IPL, however, has been grateful for the love fans have showered him with over all these years. "The love that I have received from the fans, I do not think any silverware or any trophy can come close to that," he added. In the ongoing season, Kohli has scored 443 runs in 10 innings - the most for RCB as they sit second on the points table and look certain to make it to the playoffs.

Virat Kohli reveals how ex-SA player's 'do not see you playing for India' chat stunned him early in his career

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill seven batters with the most runs in Single IPL season also including Chris Gayle, AB de Villiers and others. Cricket | Sports | Photos

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill seven batters with the most runs in single IPL season

The IPL has seen some record-breaking batting and partnerships. Let's glance at the top 7 opening stands that lit up the league with fireworks. Cricket Sports Photos

7 record breaking IPL opening partnerships that left bowlers clueless- first one will surprise you

One special shot made them legends! From Rohit's pull to Dhoni's helicopter, see how these stars created magic with just one signature move. Cricket Sports Photos

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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli says 'people are forgetting to take game deep in T20' as he steered his team to yet another win in IPL 2025. His comments came after RCB beat Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday (Apr 28) by six wickets as they chased 163-run target in 18.3 overs with six wickets in hand.
"People, I think, are forgetting the importance of stitching in a partnership or going deep into the innings in T20 cricket," Kohli said after the match. "And I think this year around, you're seeing that you can't just come out and tee off from ball one. You need to have professionalism, to read the situation and try and get into a position where you can start dominating the bowlers.
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ipl-2025-110-run-in-10-games-at-average-of-12-lsg-skipper-pant-says-not-the-right-thing-to-question-his-form-9009330" aria-label="IPL 2025 | '110 runs in 10 games at average of 12' LSG skipper Pant says 'not the right thing' to question his form">IPL 2025 | '110 runs in 10 games at average of 12' LSG skipper Pant says 'not the right thing' to question his form</a>
"And for that, you need to string in a partnership. And it won't come easy on a slow pitch if you don't know how to rotate the strike. So, yeah, that's pretty much my method.
"I analyse the conditions, understand what the score on the board is, understand what the situation demands of me and have the skills to kind of keep rotating the strike and not be stagnant on one end," he added.
RCB were in a spot of bother at 26/3 in four overs during the chase when Kohli (51 off 47) added 119 runs for the fourth wicket with POTM Krunal Pandya (73 not out off 47). The duo took the game away from DC to register their record sixth away win in the season.
<h2>RCB on a roll away from home</h2>
Out of 10 games played, RCB have won seven matches in total and six of them came away from home. They lost three consecutive matches at home before breaking the jinx with a 11-run win against Rajasthan Royals.
Kohli has been instrumental in those wins, scoring 443 runs in 10 innings at an average of 63 and a strike-rate of 138 - with 209 runs in singles and doubles. He has also hit six fifties in the season and currently sits atop of the run-making charts as the Orange Cap holder. Kohli is also miles ahead of RCB's second best batter Phil Salt who has 239 runs in nine innings.

RCB were in a spot of bother  vs DC at 26/3 in four overs during the chase when Kohli (51 off 47) added 119 runs for the fourth wicket with POTM Krunal Pandya . Cricket Sports India news

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli says 'people are forgetting to take game deep in T20' as he steered his team to yet another win in IPL 2025. His comments came after RCB beat Delhi Capitals (DC) on Sunday (Apr 28) by six wickets as they chased 163-run target in 18.3 overs with six wickets in hand. "People, I think, are forgetting the importance of stitching in a partnership or going deep into the innings in T20 cricket," Kohli said after the match. "And I think this year around, you're seeing that you can't just come out and tee off from ball one. You need to have professionalism, to read the situation and try and get into a position where you can start dominating the bowlers. Also Read - IPL 2025 | '110 runs in 10 games at average of 12' LSG skipper Pant says 'not the right thing' to question his form "And for that, you need to string in a partnership. And it won't come easy on a slow pitch if you don't know how to rotate the strike. So, yeah, that's pretty much my method. "I analyse the conditions, understand what the score on the board is, understand what the situation demands of me and have the skills to kind of keep rotating the strike and not be stagnant on one end," he added. RCB were in a spot of bother at 26/3 in four overs during the chase when Kohli (51 off 47) added 119 runs for the fourth wicket with POTM Krunal Pandya (73 not out off 47). The duo took the game away from DC to register their record sixth away win in the season. RCB on a roll away from home Out of 10 games played, RCB have won seven matches in total and six of them came away from home. They lost three consecutive matches at home before breaking the jinx with a 11-run win against Rajasthan Royals. Kohli has been instrumental in those wins, scoring 443 runs in 10 innings at an average of 63 and a strike-rate of 138 - with 209 runs in singles and doubles. He has also hit six fifties in the season and currently sits atop of the run-making charts as the Orange Cap holder. Kohli is also miles ahead of RCB's second best batter Phil Salt who has 239 runs in nine innings.

IPL 2025 | '209 runs in singles and doubles': Kohli says people 'need to have professionalism' and take games deep in T20s

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli playfully mocked Delhi Capitals (DC) wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul after their IPL 2025 win in Delhi on Sunday (Apr 27). In their previous outing, DC had beaten RCB at Bengaluru and this time RCB took the revenge.
After the win at Bengaluru, which KL Rahul had orchestrated, he had done a gesture by thumping his bat on the ground that 'this (Chinnaswamy) is his ground.' Kohli, who is originally from Delhi, returned the favour after scoring a fifty in the chase against DC, and did the same celebration after the match. Have a look at the video below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Virat Kohli doing 'This is my ground' celebration in front of KL Rahul. 🤣<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvDC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvDC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvRCB</a><a href="https://t.co/kr5QyEbaMa">pic.twitter.com/kr5QyEbaMa</a>
&mdash; Panda Heart🐼🖤 (@_vy_sh_navi) <a href="https://twitter.com/_vy_sh_navi/status/1916553079245131811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Chasing a modest 163, RCB romped to home easily in 18.3 overs with Kohli scoring 51 off 47 balls - his third consecutive fifty while chasing. Apart from him, Krunal Pandya also scored 73 not out off 47 along with 1/28 and won the Player of the Match award.
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<h2>RCB first team to win six away games in a season</h2>
The win against DC was RCB's sixth away victory this season - the first team do so in IPL history. Out of 10 games played, they have won seven matches in total and six of them came away from home. They lost three consecutive matches at home before breaking the jinx with a 11-run win against Rajasthan Royals.
Kohli has been instrumental in those wins, scoring 443 runs in 10 innings at an average of 63 and a strike-rate of 138. He has also hit six fifties in the season and currently sits atop of the run-making charts as the Orange Cap holder. Kohli is also miles ahead of RCB's second best batter Phil Salt who has 239 runs in nine innings.
Thanks to him, RCB are having a brilliant season with top spot on 10-team table with 14 points from seven wins out of 10 games.

The win against DC was RCB's sixth away victory this season - the first team do so in IPL history. Out of 10 games played, they have won seven matches in total and six of them came away from home. Sports Cricket India news

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Virat Kohli playfully mocked Delhi Capitals (DC) wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul after their IPL 2025 win in Delhi on Sunday (Apr 27). In their previous outing, DC had beaten RCB at Bengaluru and this time RCB took the revenge. After the win at Bengaluru, which KL Rahul had orchestrated, he had done a gesture by thumping his bat on the ground that 'this (Chinnaswamy) is his ground.' Kohli, who is originally from Delhi, returned the favour after scoring a fifty in the chase against DC, and did the same celebration after the match. Have a look at the video below: Virat Kohli doing 'This is my ground' celebration in front of KL Rahul. 🤣#ViratKohli #RCBvDC #DCvRCBpic.twitter.com/kr5QyEbaMa — Panda Heart🐼🖤 (@_vy_sh_navi) April 27, 2025 Chasing a modest 163, RCB romped to home easily in 18.3 overs with Kohli scoring 51 off 47 balls - his third consecutive fifty while chasing. Apart from him, Krunal Pandya also scored 73 not out off 47 along with 1/28 and won the Player of the Match award. Also Read - From bad to worse! IPL slap hefty fine on LSG captain Rishabh Pant for slow over-rate against MI RCB first team to win six away games in a season The win against DC was RCB's sixth away victory this season - the first team do so in IPL history. Out of 10 games played, they have won seven matches in total and six of them came away from home. They lost three consecutive matches at home before breaking the jinx with a 11-run win against Rajasthan Royals. Kohli has been instrumental in those wins, scoring 443 runs in 10 innings at an average of 63 and a strike-rate of 138. He has also hit six fifties in the season and currently sits atop of the run-making charts as the Orange Cap holder. Kohli is also miles ahead of RCB's second best batter Phil Salt who has 239 runs in nine innings. Thanks to him, RCB are having a brilliant season with top spot on 10-team table with 14 points from seven wins out of 10 games.

IPL 2025 | WATCH - Kohli returns favour to KL Rahul with 'this is my ground' celebration after RCB's record sixth away win

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> is a run-scoring machine who loves run chases, doing this over and over again for close to two decades now. The RCB superstar was the cornerstone of his side&rsquo;s massive yet crucial six-wicket win over the hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/delhi-capitals" rel="dofollow">Delhi Capitals</a> on Sunday evening, propelling the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the points table in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>.
Kohli completed his sixth fifty (51) this season, and alongside all-rounder Krunal Pandya, the star of the night for picking one wicket and scoring an unbeaten 73, helped RCB complete IPL&rsquo;s first in Delhi. They became the first-ever team in IPL history to win six away matches on the trot in a season.
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RCB won the toss and elected to field first against Delhi. The DC openers, Abishek Porel and Faf du Plessis, added 33 for the first wicket before losing two quick wickets inside the Powerplay. Seasoned campaigners KL Rahul and Faf tried stitching a useful stand but failed, with Pandya accounting for the Protean on 22 to dent DC&rsquo;s run.
Before KL Rahul could accelerate, his India teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed him on 41 off 39 balls; he later got rid of dangerous Ashutosh Sharma on just two. With Delhi&rsquo;s back against the wall, Tristan Stubbs bailed the team out with a late blitz, hitting 34 off 18 balls, including six and five fours. His wicket was the last nail in the coffin, as RCB restricted DC to 162 for eight in 20 overs.
<h2>Kohli, Krunal show in Delhi</h2>
Opening with a new partner in Jacob Bethell, Kohli saw three wickets falling early inside the first six overs, with RCB&rsquo;s scorecard reeling at 26 for three at one stage.&nbsp;
Kohli and Krunal then began the recovery work. The pair first completed a fifty-plus stand and then marched towards crossing the landmark of a 100-run partnership, putting RCB&rsquo;s nose in front. While Kohli got out shortly after completing his fifty, with the visitors still in the chase, Krunal stood his ground and engineered the chase with Tim David as RCB won the game with six wickets and nine balls remaining.&nbsp;

After a win over DC, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) became the first-ever team in IPL history to win six away matches on the trot in a season. Sports, Cricket

Virat Kohli is a run-scoring machine who loves run chases, doing this over and over again for close to two decades now. The RCB superstar was the cornerstone of his side’s massive yet crucial six-wicket win over the hosts Delhi Capitals on Sunday evening, propelling the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the points table in IPL 2025. Kohli completed his sixth fifty (51) this season, and alongside all-rounder Krunal Pandya, the star of the night for picking one wicket and scoring an unbeaten 73, helped RCB complete IPL’s first in Delhi. They became the first-ever team in IPL history to win six away matches on the trot in a season. Also read | From bad to worse! IPL slap hefty fine on LSG captain Rishabh Pant for slow over-rate against MI RCB won the toss and elected to field first against Delhi. The DC openers, Abishek Porel and Faf du Plessis, added 33 for the first wicket before losing two quick wickets inside the Powerplay. Seasoned campaigners KL Rahul and Faf tried stitching a useful stand but failed, with Pandya accounting for the Protean on 22 to dent DC’s run. Before KL Rahul could accelerate, his India teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed him on 41 off 39 balls; he later got rid of dangerous Ashutosh Sharma on just two. With Delhi’s back against the wall, Tristan Stubbs bailed the team out with a late blitz, hitting 34 off 18 balls, including six and five fours. His wicket was the last nail in the coffin, as RCB restricted DC to 162 for eight in 20 overs. Kohli, Krunal show in Delhi Opening with a new partner in Jacob Bethell, Kohli saw three wickets falling early inside the first six overs, with RCB’s scorecard reeling at 26 for three at one stage. Kohli and Krunal then began the recovery work. The pair first completed a fifty-plus stand and then marched towards crossing the landmark of a 100-run partnership, putting RCB’s nose in front. While Kohli got out shortly after completing his fifty, with the visitors still in the chase, Krunal stood his ground and engineered the chase with Tim David as RCB won the game with six wickets and nine balls remaining.

Kohli, Krunal power RCB to IPL’s first in crucial away win in Delhi

From MS Dhoni to Virat Kohli here's a look at seven players with most appearances in IPL history also including Dinesh Karthik and Rohit Sharma. Sports | Photos

From MS Dhoni to Virat Kohli 7 players with most appearances in IPL history

Everyone remembers centuries in cricket, but few recall those who get out at 99. Here’s a look at the players who missed their ton by a fraction. Photos Sports Cricket

From Virat Kohli to Chris Gayle 5 IPL stars who missed their century by one run

IPL | Sports | Photos: Virat Kohli to Shikhar Dhawan here's a look at seven Indian batters to score most runs in Indian Premier League history including Rohit Sharma and Suresh Raina.

Virat Kohli to Shikhar Dhawan seven Indian batters to score most runs in IPL history

Sports | Photos: Chris Gayle to Virat Kohli here's a look at seven batters with most sixes in IPL history AB de Villiers, Kieron Pollard, MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma.

Chris Gayle to Virat Kohli seven batters with most sixes in IPL history

India batting stalwart Virat Kohli surpassed Pakistan batter Babar Azam for most T20 fifties while batting first during the IPL 2025 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). Kohli scored a brilliant 70 - his 62nd T20 fifty-plus score while batting first - as RCB beat RR by 11 runs at Chinnaswamy stadium on Thursday (Apr 24). Virat is now on the top of the list for most T20 fifty-plus score while batting first while Babar's on second place with 61 fifty-plus scores.
Meanwhile, the win against RR was also RCB's first at home this IPL season - after losing three games on trot. Overall, RCB have won six games out of nine played and lost just three. They are currently third on the 10-team points table with 12 points from nine games.
Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-neeraj-chopra-statement-on-inviting-pakistan-arshad-nadeem-for-nc-classic-says-after-what-happened-in-pahalgam-8999632">Pahalgam terror attack: Neeraj Chopra breaks silence on inviting Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, says 'after what happened in Pahalgam...'</a>
Gujarat Titans (GT) and Delhi Capitals (DC) are above RCB with as many points as Bengaluru but in eight games each. Gujarat sits atop on the basis of better net run rate than DC.
Rajasthan, on the other hand, have lost their third consecutive game from a winning position. They had lost previous two games in Super Over and two runs respectively, from a commanding position before losing the plot against RCB on Thursday.
Rajasthan currently sit at eighth position on the points table with seven losses in nine games - they also also lost last five games in addition to losing the first two games of this season as well.
Royals are currently above only Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on the points table. Five-time winners CSK and SRH have managed to win only two games each from eight games played and have lost six apiece.
Both the teams face off on Friday (Apr 25) and winner will surpass RR on the points to be at eighth position at least.

Kohli scored a brilliant 70 - his 62nd T20 fifty while batting first - as RCB beat RR by 11 runs at Chinnaswamy stadium on Thursday (Apr 24). Cricket Sports

India batting stalwart Virat Kohli surpassed Pakistan batter Babar Azam for most T20 fifties while batting first during the IPL 2025 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). Kohli scored a brilliant 70 - his 62nd T20 fifty-plus score while batting first - as RCB beat RR by 11 runs at Chinnaswamy stadium on Thursday (Apr 24). Virat is now on the top of the list for most T20 fifty-plus score while batting first while Babar's on second place with 61 fifty-plus scores. Meanwhile, the win against RR was also RCB's first at home this IPL season - after losing three games on trot. Overall, RCB have won six games out of nine played and lost just three. They are currently third on the 10-team points table with 12 points from nine games. Also Read - Pahalgam terror attack: Neeraj Chopra breaks silence on inviting Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem, says 'after what happened in Pahalgam...' Gujarat Titans (GT) and Delhi Capitals (DC) are above RCB with as many points as Bengaluru but in eight games each. Gujarat sits atop on the basis of better net run rate than DC. Rajasthan, on the other hand, have lost their third consecutive game from a winning position. They had lost previous two games in Super Over and two runs respectively, from a commanding position before losing the plot against RCB on Thursday. Rajasthan currently sit at eighth position on the points table with seven losses in nine games - they also also lost last five games in addition to losing the first two games of this season as well. Royals are currently above only Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on the points table. Five-time winners CSK and SRH have managed to win only two games each from eight games played and have lost six apiece. Both the teams face off on Friday (Apr 25) and winner will surpass RR on the points to be at eighth position at least.

Virat Kohli surpasses Pakistan's Babar Azam for THIS T20 record

Virat Kohli was seen in sensational form on Thursday (April 24) as he smashed 70 runs against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025). Playing at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Kohli cleared his intent to be in the Orange Cap race as he now sits second in the race to win the Orange Cap (batter with the most runs in IPL season). Only Gujarat Titans&rsquo; B Sai Sudharsan has scored more runs than Kohli in the ongoing IPL 2025 at the time of writing.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Kohli on fire</h2>
Having scored an unbeaten 73 against Punjab Kings on Sunday in Mullanpur, the former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain continued his brilliant form and amassed 70 runs on Thursday. Kohli was seen taking the attack against Rajasthan bowlers while playing shots left, right and centre. His innings consisted of 8 fours and 2 sixes while he was striking at 167.
He was given a great helping hand by Devdutt Padikkal who also smashed 50 off 27 which consisted of 4 fours and 3 sixes. Padikkal and Kohli put together 95 runs for the second wicket before the latter was dismissed.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-bcci-vice-president-rajeev-shukla-shuts-door-for-india-pakistan-series-says-we-will-not-play-8997703" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pahalgam terror attack: BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla shuts door for India-Pakistan series, says 'we will not play...'</a>
At the break, RCB had scored 205/5 in their 20 overs with Tim David (23) and Jitesh Sharma (unbeaten 20) playing a key role.
Coming into the match, RCB are yet to win a match on home turf having lost all three so far. However, with 205 on the board against a struggling RR side, they will be looking to end that run as they look to book their place in the Playoffs of the IPL 2025. A win for RCB will see them climb to third spot above Mumbai Indians and with 12 points they will need a maximum of three more wins to book their place in the last four.

India News Sports: Virat Kohli was seen in sensational form on Thursday (April 24) as he smashed 70 runs against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the IPL 2025.

Virat Kohli was seen in sensational form on Thursday (April 24) as he smashed 70 runs against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025). Playing at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Kohli cleared his intent to be in the Orange Cap race as he now sits second in the race to win the Orange Cap (batter with the most runs in IPL season). Only Gujarat Titans’ B Sai Sudharsan has scored more runs than Kohli in the ongoing IPL 2025 at the time of writing. Kohli on fire Having scored an unbeaten 73 against Punjab Kings on Sunday in Mullanpur, the former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain continued his brilliant form and amassed 70 runs on Thursday. Kohli was seen taking the attack against Rajasthan bowlers while playing shots left, right and centre. His innings consisted of 8 fours and 2 sixes while he was striking at 167. He was given a great helping hand by Devdutt Padikkal who also smashed 50 off 27 which consisted of 4 fours and 3 sixes. Padikkal and Kohli put together 95 runs for the second wicket before the latter was dismissed. ALSO READ | Pahalgam terror attack: BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla shuts door for India-Pakistan series, says 'we will not play...' At the break, RCB had scored 205/5 in their 20 overs with Tim David (23) and Jitesh Sharma (unbeaten 20) playing a key role. Coming into the match, RCB are yet to win a match on home turf having lost all three so far. However, with 205 on the board against a struggling RR side, they will be looking to end that run as they look to book their place in the Playoffs of the IPL 2025. A win for RCB will see them climb to third spot above Mumbai Indians and with 12 points they will need a maximum of three more wins to book their place in the last four.

IPL 2025: Virat Kohli underlines intent to win Orange Cap, smashes 70 off 42 against Rajasthan Royals

Cricket | Sports | Photos: Here's a look at seven unbreakable Virat Kohli records ft most ODI Hundreds, most runs in single IPL season, Most Runs in Single WC Edition.  

7 unbreakable Virat Kohli records featuring most runs in single IPL season

RCB vs RR Dream11 Prediction: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=ROYAL+CHALLENGERS+BENGALURU" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Royal Challengers Bengaluru </a>(RCB) head into the latest Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 contest sitting fourth in the standings as they face <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=Rajasthan+Royals" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rajasthan Royals</a> (RR) on Thursday (April 24). Host RCB have a poor home record having lost all three matches at Chinnaswamy stadium while Rajasthan Royals are on a four match losing streak. So here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the RR vs RCB contest.&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">RCB vs RR Match Preview</h2>
So far in the IPL 2025, RCB have won five out of eight games but they have failed to win a single game at home. The latest meeting will be the 34th between the pair as RCB edge RR with a head-to-head record of 16-14.&nbsp;
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">RCB vs RR Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11</h2>
Wicketkeeper: Philip Salt, Dhruv Jurel 
Batters: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag 
All-Rounders: Krunal Pandya, Nitish Rana 
Bowlers: Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jofra Archer
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-world-cup-is-like-olympics-of-cricket-says-former-australia-captain-steve-waugh-8994506" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">World Cup is like Olympics of cricket', says former Australia captain Steve Waugh</a>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">RCB vs RR Head-to-Head Records</h2>
Both RCB and RR have almost identical records in their previous 33 meetings with the former leading the head-to-head 16-14 while three matches have ended with no result.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices<o:p></o:p></h2>
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal&nbsp;
Yashasvi Jaiswal will open the batting and has scored 307 runs in nine matches. He will be a good captaincy pick for this match.
2. Virat Kohli&nbsp;
Virat Kohli is the leading run-getter in this history of IPL with more than 8000 runs. He will be a good captaincy pick for this match.
3. Josh Hazlewood
So far with 12 wickets in the IPL 2025, Hazlewood has been a good value-for-money player. We expect him to perform well and get at least a couple of wickets.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-updated-points-table-indian-premier-league-rankings-standings-net-run-rate-8888780" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details</a>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">RCB vs RR Fantasy Cricket Tips<o:p></o:p></h2>
Phil Salt and Virat Kohli are good options to have in the Dream11 having been in great form. Shimron Hetmyer is also a value edition on the side.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Rajasthan Royals Team Analysis<o:p></o:p></h2>
RCB: Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Punjab Kings by seven wickets and seven balls to spare in last game. They are placed fourth on the points table with five wins and three losses in eight matches.
RR: Rajasthan Royals are eighth on the points table with two wins and six losses in eight matches. They suffered a narrow defeat against the Lucknow Super Giants in the previous match by two runs.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">M.Chinnaswamy Stadium Pitch Report<o:p></o:p></h2>
At the M.Chinnaswamy this year, teams batting second have won all three matches. RCB batted first each time and lost, likely because the pitch isn't great for batting early on. So, if a team bats first, it's important they doesn't lose many early wickets and post a good total to defend.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for RCB vs RR Dream11 Fantasy Cricket<o:p></o:p></h2>
Wicketkeeper: Jitesh Sharma, Phil Salt 
Batters: Rajat Patidar (C), Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi 
All-Rounders: Riyan Parag 
Bowlers: Jofra Archer, Josh Hazelwood, Sandeep Sharma, Suyash Sharma 
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Match Prediction: Who Will Win RCB vs RR?</h2>
Rajasthan Royals are on a four-match losing streak. We except them to come hard at RCB with a nail-biting match on the line. However, seeing the current form and team balance, it will be RCB who we predict to be victorious.
Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru head into the latest Indian Premier League contest sitting fourth in the standings as they face Rajasthan Royals Sports Cricket India News

RCB vs RR Dream11 Prediction: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head into the latest Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 contest sitting fourth in the standings as they face Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Thursday (April 24). Host RCB have a poor home record having lost all three matches at Chinnaswamy stadium while Rajasthan Royals are on a four match losing streak. So here's our take on who should make it to the Dream11 for the RR vs RCB contest. RCB vs RR Match Preview So far in the IPL 2025, RCB have won five out of eight games but they have failed to win a single game at home. The latest meeting will be the 34th between the pair as RCB edge RR with a head-to-head record of 16-14. RCB vs RR Dream11 Prediction MyPlaying 11 Wicketkeeper: Philip Salt, Dhruv Jurel Batters: Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag All-Rounders: Krunal Pandya, Nitish Rana Bowlers: Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jofra Archer Also Read: World Cup is like Olympics of cricket', says former Australia captain Steve Waugh RCB vs RR Head-to-Head Records Both RCB and RR have almost identical records in their previous 33 meetings with the former leading the head-to-head 16-14 while three matches have ended with no result. 3 Top Captain Or Vice-Captain Choices 1. Yashasvi Jaiswal Yashasvi Jaiswal will open the batting and has scored 307 runs in nine matches. He will be a good captaincy pick for this match. 2. Virat Kohli Virat Kohli is the leading run-getter in this history of IPL with more than 8000 runs. He will be a good captaincy pick for this match. 3. Josh Hazlewood So far with 12 wickets in the IPL 2025, Hazlewood has been a good value-for-money player. We expect him to perform well and get at least a couple of wickets. ALSO READ | 'Updated IPL 2025 Points Table': Check points table, match results, NRR with wins, loss and other key details RCB vs RR Fantasy Cricket Tips Phil Salt and Virat Kohli are good options to have in the Dream11 having been in great form. Shimron Hetmyer is also a value edition on the side. Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Rajasthan Royals Team Analysis RCB: Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Punjab Kings by seven wickets and seven balls to spare in last game. They are placed fourth on the points table with five wins and three losses in eight matches. RR: Rajasthan Royals are eighth on the points table with two wins and six losses in eight matches. They suffered a narrow defeat against the Lucknow Super Giants in the previous match by two runs. M.Chinnaswamy Stadium Pitch Report At the M.Chinnaswamy this year, teams batting second have won all three matches. RCB batted first each time and lost, likely because the pitch isn't great for batting early on. So, if a team bats first, it's important they doesn't lose many early wickets and post a good total to defend. Suggested playing 11 No. 2 for RCB vs RR Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Wicketkeeper: Jitesh Sharma, Phil Salt Batters: Rajat Patidar (C), Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi All-Rounders: Riyan Parag Bowlers: Jofra Archer, Josh Hazelwood, Sandeep Sharma, Suyash Sharma Match Prediction: Who Will Win RCB vs RR? Rajasthan Royals are on a four-match losing streak. We except them to come hard at RCB with a nail-biting match on the line. However, seeing the current form and team balance, it will be RCB who we predict to be victorious. Disclaimer: The fantasy tips and facts expressed within this article are the author's personal opinions and WION does not promote or endorse any sort of betting activity. They do not reflect the views of WION. It is not a reflection of the actual points you might earn. WION does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

RCB vs RR Dream11 Prediction: Check Team, captain and vice-captain picks for Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Rajasthan Royals

India cricketer Virat Kohli and many others have condemned the terror attack in Jammu &amp; Kashmir's Pahalgam. The attack, in which more than 25 people have lost their lives, was carried out on Tuesday (Apr 22) in Baisaran valley area at around 2-3 pm India time.
&ldquo;Deeply saddened by the heinous attack in Pahalgam on innocent people. Heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. Praying for peace and strength to families of all those who lost their lives and justice to be served for this cruel act,&rdquo; wrote Kohli on his Instagram story.
<img alt="Kohli's reaction to Pahalgam terrorist attack" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/485x0/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/23/Nzv5ElpT7O9Zcg6njpmk.JPG" style="width: 485px;" class="center">
This is one of the deadliest terror attacks in Kashmir, which has often been the victim of cross-border terrorisms from Pakistan-based groups. Among the dead, mostly were tourists from various states of India including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha and Maharashtra.
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/let-top-commander-adil-gouri-and-saifullah-kasuri-orchestrated-pahalgam-terror-attack-sources-8991868" aria-label="LeT top commander orchestrated Pahalgam terror attack: Sources">LeT top commander orchestrated Pahalgam terror attack: Sources</a>
The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has claimed the responsibility for the deadly attack.
Indian prime minister Narendra Modi, in wake of the attack, cut short his trip to Saudi Arabia and returned India a day early on Wednesday (Apr 23) morning. He has been briefed about the situation by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.
Apart from Kohli, many other cricketers also reacted to the news of this heinous attack. Here are some of those reactions:
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Shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic attacks on innocent people in Pahalgam. The affected families must be going through an unimaginable ordeal &ndash; India and the world stand united with them at this dark hour, as we mourn the loss of lives and pray for justice.
&mdash; Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1914927204062126157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Deeply pained to hear of the reprehensible terrorist attack on innocent tourists in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pahalgam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pahalgam</a> . My heart goes out to those who have lost their loved ones. Prayers for the injured 🙏🏼
&mdash; Virrender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1914745618381320241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Extremely pained by the deadly attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest and justice is brought soon🙏🏼
&mdash; VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1914909773973389811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Heartbreaking to hear about the tragic attack in Pahalgam. Innocent lives lost to senseless violence. Praying for strength and peace for the affected families. Let's stand together against hate. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pahalgam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pahalgam</a>
&mdash; Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) <a href="https://twitter.com/anilkumble1074/status/1914746387159507212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
In a separate encounter, meanwhile, the security forces have gunned down two terrorists a day after the attack and foiled their infiltration bid in Baramulla area.
As for the Pahalgam attack, the forces have released the sketches of three terrorists involved in carrying out the attack in broad daylight.

The attack, in which more than 25 people have lost their lives, was carried out on Tuesday (Apr 22) in Baisaran valley area in J&K's Pahalgam at around 2-3 pm India time.

India cricketer Virat Kohli and many others have condemned the terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir's Pahalgam. The attack, in which more than 25 people have lost their lives, was carried out on Tuesday (Apr 22) in Baisaran valley area at around 2-3 pm India time. “Deeply saddened by the heinous attack in Pahalgam on innocent people. Heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. Praying for peace and strength to families of all those who lost their lives and justice to be served for this cruel act,” wrote Kohli on his Instagram story. This is one of the deadliest terror attacks in Kashmir, which has often been the victim of cross-border terrorisms from Pakistan-based groups. Among the dead, mostly were tourists from various states of India including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Odisha and Maharashtra. Also Read - LeT top commander orchestrated Pahalgam terror attack: Sources The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) has claimed the responsibility for the deadly attack. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi, in wake of the attack, cut short his trip to Saudi Arabia and returned India a day early on Wednesday (Apr 23) morning. He has been briefed about the situation by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. Apart from Kohli, many other cricketers also reacted to the news of this heinous attack. Here are some of those reactions: Shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic attacks on innocent people in Pahalgam. The affected families must be going through an unimaginable ordeal – India and the world stand united with them at this dark hour, as we mourn the loss of lives and pray for justice. — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) April 23, 2025 Deeply pained to hear of the reprehensible terrorist attack on innocent tourists in #Pahalgam . My heart goes out to those who have lost their loved ones. Prayers for the injured 🙏🏼 — Virrender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) April 22, 2025 Extremely pained by the deadly attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest and justice is brought soon🙏🏼 — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) April 23, 2025 Heartbreaking to hear about the tragic attack in Pahalgam. Innocent lives lost to senseless violence. Praying for strength and peace for the affected families. Let's stand together against hate. #Pahalgam — Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) April 22, 2025 In a separate encounter, meanwhile, the security forces have gunned down two terrorists a day after the attack and foiled their infiltration bid in Baramulla area. As for the Pahalgam attack, the forces have released the sketches of three terrorists involved in carrying out the attack in broad daylight.

'Justice to be served for this,' Virat Kohli, others react to Pahalgam terror attack

Punjab Kings' (PBKS) captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shreyas-iyer">Shreyas Iyer</a>&rsquo;s sister Shresta Iyer has hit back at the online trolls after PBKS suffered a&nbsp; loss against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025). RCB managed to avenge their previous loss against Punjab, beating them by seven wickets in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh.
Post game, Shresta Iyer revealed that she was subjected to trolling by a section of fans for Punjab&rsquo;s loss. However, she was quick to put them in their place through a long post on her Instagram account, mentioning their shallow mindset of going after the player&rsquo;s family.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-former-australian-cricketer-michael-slater-sentenced-to-four-year-jail-for-domestic-violence-8990176">Former Australian cricketer Michael Slater sentenced to four-year jail for domestic violence</a>
"It's honestly disappointing to see people stoop so low as to blame the family for simply showing up to support. Whether we're physically present or cheering from afar, our support for the team is unwavering. To those pointing fingers at me, your shallow mindset is not only laughable, it's embarrassing. I've been there for countless matches, India's and others and most of them ended in victory. But I guess when you're busy trolling from behind a screen, facts don't matter," wrote Shresta on her Instagram story.
<h2>'I am and always will be proud supporter of my brother and his team'</h2>
Furthermore, Shresta said that the criticism wouldn&rsquo;t stop her from supporting her brother and his team.
&ldquo;I am, and always will be, a proud and positive supporter of my brother and his team. Your baseless criticism doesn't shake me, it just shows your ignorance. Win or lose, I'll be right there supporting them, because that's what real support looks like. Today just wasn't their day. But losses are a part of the game, something you'd know if you had ever done more than type out hate online. So next time, think twice before coming for someone, who's actually doing what you can't...Showing up,&rdquo; she added.
Coming to the match, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;hit an unbeaten 73 as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a>&nbsp;avenged their last game&rsquo;s loss against Punjab Kings with a comfortable seven-wicket win over the hosts in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025</a>&nbsp;on Sunday (April 20). Playing at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, RCB won their fifth away game this season, climbing to the third spot on the points table with ten points from eight contested matches.

India News, Sports: Post game, Shresta Iyer revealed that she was subjected to trolling by a section of fans for Punjab Kings' loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Punjab Kings' (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer’s sister Shresta Iyer has hit back at the online trolls after PBKS suffered a loss against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the ongoing edition of the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025). RCB managed to avenge their previous loss against Punjab, beating them by seven wickets in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. Post game, Shresta Iyer revealed that she was subjected to trolling by a section of fans for Punjab’s loss. However, she was quick to put them in their place through a long post on her Instagram account, mentioning their shallow mindset of going after the player’s family. Also Read: Former Australian cricketer Michael Slater sentenced to four-year jail for domestic violence "It's honestly disappointing to see people stoop so low as to blame the family for simply showing up to support. Whether we're physically present or cheering from afar, our support for the team is unwavering. To those pointing fingers at me, your shallow mindset is not only laughable, it's embarrassing. I've been there for countless matches, India's and others and most of them ended in victory. But I guess when you're busy trolling from behind a screen, facts don't matter," wrote Shresta on her Instagram story. 'I am and always will be proud supporter of my brother and his team' Furthermore, Shresta said that the criticism wouldn’t stop her from supporting her brother and his team. “I am, and always will be, a proud and positive supporter of my brother and his team. Your baseless criticism doesn't shake me, it just shows your ignorance. Win or lose, I'll be right there supporting them, because that's what real support looks like. Today just wasn't their day. But losses are a part of the game, something you'd know if you had ever done more than type out hate online. So next time, think twice before coming for someone, who's actually doing what you can't...Showing up,” she added. Coming to the match, Virat Kohli hit an unbeaten 73 as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) avenged their last game’s loss against Punjab Kings with a comfortable seven-wicket win over the hosts in IPL 2025 on Sunday (April 20). Playing at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, RCB won their fifth away game this season, climbing to the third spot on the points table with ten points from eight contested matches.

IPL 2025: Shreyas Iyer's sister Shresta hits back at online trolls after Punjab Kings loss to RCB

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced its contract list with 34 players being selected across four categories. In top contract category A+ players are automatic choice in all three formats and the list features four players: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah.
Out of the four players, Rohit, Virat and Jadeja have already announced their retirement from T20Is after India won the T20 World Cup in June 2024. Hence, the question came up that how retired players could be a part of top category if they no longer play a format.
Also Read - <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-kkr-mentor-bravo-criticises-top-orders-batters-rahane-iyer-rinku-defends-andre-russell-8989143" aria-label="IPL 2025 | KKR mentor Bravo lashes out at top order batters in defence of out-of-form Russell">IPL 2025 | KKR mentor Bravo lashes out at top order batters in defence of out-of-form Russell</a>
<h2>Why Kohli, Rohit and Jadeja were offered A+ contract despite retiring from T20Is?</h2>
Speaking to news agency PTI, an official said on condition on anonymity: "The period of fresh central contract is from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025. But the assessment year is October 1, 2023 to September 30, 2024. Kohli, Rohit and Jadeja played the T20 World Cup final in June, 2024 and hence at that time, they were all-format regulars. Going by that technicality, they are supposed to be in A+ category."&nbsp;
"Similarly, Ishan (2 World Cup matches) and Shreyas played 15 ODIs and a handful Tests in the 2023-24 season and hence got their respective categories," he added.
Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan got back into the contract set up after missing out last year while Rishabh Pant, who was in B category last year, has been promoted to A category.
Players get INR 7 crore yearly for being in A+ category, INR 5 crore in A category, INR 3 crore in B category and INR 1 crore in C category.
The BCCI has also included seven players in the contract list for the first time as well. These are - Nitish Kumar Reddy, Dhruv Jurel, Abhishek Sharma, Sarfaraz Khan, Akash Deep, Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana.

Out of the four players in A+ category, Rohit, Virat and Jadeja have already announced their retirement from T20Is after India won the T20 World Cup in June 2024. Cricket Sports

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently announced its contract list with 34 players being selected across four categories. In top contract category A+ players are automatic choice in all three formats and the list features four players: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah. Out of the four players, Rohit, Virat and Jadeja have already announced their retirement from T20Is after India won the T20 World Cup in June 2024. Hence, the question came up that how retired players could be a part of top category if they no longer play a format. Also Read - IPL 2025 | KKR mentor Bravo lashes out at top order batters in defence of out-of-form Russell Why Kohli, Rohit and Jadeja were offered A+ contract despite retiring from T20Is? Speaking to news agency PTI, an official said on condition on anonymity: "The period of fresh central contract is from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025. But the assessment year is October 1, 2023 to September 30, 2024. Kohli, Rohit and Jadeja played the T20 World Cup final in June, 2024 and hence at that time, they were all-format regulars. Going by that technicality, they are supposed to be in A+ category." "Similarly, Ishan (2 World Cup matches) and Shreyas played 15 ODIs and a handful Tests in the 2023-24 season and hence got their respective categories," he added. Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan got back into the contract set up after missing out last year while Rishabh Pant, who was in B category last year, has been promoted to A category. Players get INR 7 crore yearly for being in A+ category, INR 5 crore in A category, INR 3 crore in B category and INR 1 crore in C category. The BCCI has also included seven players in the contract list for the first time as well. These are - Nitish Kumar Reddy, Dhruv Jurel, Abhishek Sharma, Sarfaraz Khan, Akash Deep, Varun Chakravarthy and Harshit Rana.

Why Rohit, Kohli and Jadeja got A+ contract from BCCI despite retiring from T20Is

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> hit an unbeaten 73 as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)</a> avenged their last game&rsquo;s loss against Punjab Kings with a comfortable seven-wicket win over the hosts in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> on Sunday. Playing at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, RCB won their fifth away game this season, climbing to the third spot on the points table with ten points from eight contested matches.
The RCB won the toss and elected to field first. Following a crisp start from the PBKS openers, all-rounder Krunal Pandya broke the stand in his first over, removing the dangerous Priyansh Arya out on 22. Two overs later, he removed gloveman Prabhsimran on 33 before Romario Shepherd dismissed Punjab captain Shreyas Iyer cheaply on six.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-pakistani-fan-filmed-watching-ipl-game-while-attending-live-psl-match-video-goes-viral-8982813" rel="dofollow">Pakistani fan filmed watching IPL game while attending live PSL match &ndash; Video goes viral</a>
Batter Nehal Wadhera was the next to depart, run out on just five, with PBKS reeling at 73 for four at one stage.&nbsp;
Josh Inglis and Shashank Singh stitched a 36-run stand for the fifth wicket before Punjab lost two quick wickets. With Shashank and Marco Jansen at the crease, Punjab expected to go big with the score; however, a tight display of death bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood restricted PBKS to 157 for six in 20 overs.
For the RCB, spinners Krunal and Suyash Sharma returned with two wickets each.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9pq6iwu-68ls5w6f-vrmwrzhv">
I.C.Y.M.I On Target 🎯 Suyash Sharma's twin strikes that put <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCB</a> in front ✌ Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/6htVhCbTiX">https://t.co/6htVhCbTiX</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKSvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKSvRCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/AaENClNFCk">pic.twitter.com/AaENClNFCk</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1913923325111488707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>Virat, the star for RCB</h2>
Virat Kohli is back among the runs. After getting out early against Punjab Kings in the previous game, Kohli starred for his team in the away clash, hitting his 67th IPL fifty - the most ever and guiding his team home with seven wickets remaining.&nbsp;
Arshdeep Singh dismissed Phil Salt early on one, bringing Devdutt Padikkal to the crease, with the pair adding 103 runs for the second wicket. Padikkal&rsquo;s dismissal on 61 gave the hosts little hope, but captain Rajat Patidar&rsquo;s brief knock squashed that. The skipper also got out on 12, but Kohli had done the damage by then, hitting seven fours and a six in his 54-ball 73.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9pq66cf-zopq0xej-chsapcji">
Jitesh Sharma dials 6⃣ to seal it in style 🙌 Virat Kohli remains unbeaten on 73*(54) in yet another chase 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> secure round 2⃣ of the battle of reds ❤ Scorecard ▶ <a href="https://t.co/6htVhCbltp">https://t.co/6htVhCbltp</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKSvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKSvRCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/6dqDTEPoEA">pic.twitter.com/6dqDTEPoEA</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1913948999310078388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
His unbeaten knock helped him enter the top three batters with the most runs thus far this season.&nbsp;

Playing at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, RCB won their fifth game this season, climbing to the third spot on the points table. Sports, Cricket

Virat Kohli hit an unbeaten 73 as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) avenged their last game’s loss against Punjab Kings with a comfortable seven-wicket win over the hosts in IPL 2025 on Sunday. Playing at Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, RCB won their fifth away game this season, climbing to the third spot on the points table with ten points from eight contested matches. The RCB won the toss and elected to field first. Following a crisp start from the PBKS openers, all-rounder Krunal Pandya broke the stand in his first over, removing the dangerous Priyansh Arya out on 22. Two overs later, he removed gloveman Prabhsimran on 33 before Romario Shepherd dismissed Punjab captain Shreyas Iyer cheaply on six. Also read | Pakistani fan filmed watching IPL game while attending live PSL match – Video goes viral Batter Nehal Wadhera was the next to depart, run out on just five, with PBKS reeling at 73 for four at one stage. Josh Inglis and Shashank Singh stitched a 36-run stand for the fifth wicket before Punjab lost two quick wickets. With Shashank and Marco Jansen at the crease, Punjab expected to go big with the score; however, a tight display of death bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood restricted PBKS to 157 for six in 20 overs. For the RCB, spinners Krunal and Suyash Sharma returned with two wickets each. I.C.Y.M.I On Target 🎯 Suyash Sharma's twin strikes that put #RCB in front ✌ Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/6htVhCbTiX#TATAIPL | #PBKSvRCB pic.twitter.com/AaENClNFCk — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 20, 2025 Virat, the star for RCB Virat Kohli is back among the runs. After getting out early against Punjab Kings in the previous game, Kohli starred for his team in the away clash, hitting his 67th IPL fifty - the most ever and guiding his team home with seven wickets remaining. Arshdeep Singh dismissed Phil Salt early on one, bringing Devdutt Padikkal to the crease, with the pair adding 103 runs for the second wicket. Padikkal’s dismissal on 61 gave the hosts little hope, but captain Rajat Patidar’s brief knock squashed that. The skipper also got out on 12, but Kohli had done the damage by then, hitting seven fours and a six in his 54-ball 73. Jitesh Sharma dials 6⃣ to seal it in style 🙌 Virat Kohli remains unbeaten on 73*(54) in yet another chase 👏@RCBTweets secure round 2⃣ of the battle of reds ❤ Scorecard ▶ https://t.co/6htVhCbltp#TATAIPL | #PBKSvRCB pic.twitter.com/6dqDTEPoEA — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 20, 2025 His unbeaten knock helped him enter the top three batters with the most runs thus far this season.

IPL 2025: Kohli, Krunal power RCB to beat Punjab Kings in return leg, enter top three

The last time rain interrupted a clash between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru" rel="dofollow">Royal Challengers Bengaluru</a> (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Virat Kohli batted with five stitches in his hand and brought the house down with a century for the ages. That was 2016, a night of commitment, brilliance, and a storm that couldn&rsquo;t stop a legend.
Nine years later, the rain returned. So did the rivalry. But this time, Punjab Kings wrote their tale under the clouds.
<h2>PBKS turn the tables&nbsp;</h2>
On a rain-hit Friday (April 18) night in Bengaluru, Punjab Kings flipped the script with a clinical win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a match reduced to 14 overs a side. RCB fans hoped for a touch of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=virat+kohli" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kohli</a> magic, but Punjab delivered the knockout punch.&nbsp;
RCB had a bad start, crashing to 43/7 in the ninth over.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/arshdeep-singh" rel="dofollow">Arshdeep Singh</a> struck early, removing Virat Kohli for just 1, followed with wickets kept falling at regular intervals. It was a combined team bowling effort with Arshdeep, Macro Jansen, Chahal and Harpreet Brar claiming two wickets each
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-7-highest-individual-scorers-in-ipl-2025-8977029" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">7 Highest Individual Scorers in IPL 2025</a>
Amid the collapse, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=tim+david" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Tim David</a> stood tall with a fighting fifty, pushing RCB to 95, a total that looked far below from the par score.&nbsp;Punjab&rsquo;s chase began shakily. Both openers fell inside the powerplay, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/josh-hazlewood" rel="dofollow">Josh Hazlewood</a>&rsquo;s double-strike suddenly brought RCB back into the contest. The pressure was building, but Nehal Wadhera stood tall for Punjab.
The left-hander counter-attacked with a blistering 33* off 19 balls. Two towering sixes off Suyash Sharma turned the momentum Punjab's way, before Marcus Stoinis sealed the deal with a boundary in the 12th over.
By this win, Punjab are now in the second position of the points table. Whereas RCB, losing the third match of this season, all at home, have managed to be in the top 4.
Thus, in 2016, when Chinnaswamy echoed Kohli's heroics, it now stood silent with Punjab's storm.

Sports: In a rain-curtailed match, PBKS flipped the script with a clinical win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a match reduced to 14 overs a side

The last time rain interrupted a clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Virat Kohli batted with five stitches in his hand and brought the house down with a century for the ages. That was 2016, a night of commitment, brilliance, and a storm that couldn’t stop a legend. Nine years later, the rain returned. So did the rivalry. But this time, Punjab Kings wrote their tale under the clouds. PBKS turn the tables On a rain-hit Friday (April 18) night in Bengaluru, Punjab Kings flipped the script with a clinical win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a match reduced to 14 overs a side. RCB fans hoped for a touch of Kohli magic, but Punjab delivered the knockout punch. RCB had a bad start, crashing to 43/7 in the ninth over. Arshdeep Singh struck early, removing Virat Kohli for just 1, followed with wickets kept falling at regular intervals. It was a combined team bowling effort with Arshdeep, Macro Jansen, Chahal and Harpreet Brar claiming two wickets each Also Read: 7 Highest Individual Scorers in IPL 2025 Amid the collapse, Tim David stood tall with a fighting fifty, pushing RCB to 95, a total that looked far below from the par score. Punjab’s chase began shakily. Both openers fell inside the powerplay, and Josh Hazlewood’s double-strike suddenly brought RCB back into the contest. The pressure was building, but Nehal Wadhera stood tall for Punjab. The left-hander counter-attacked with a blistering 33* off 19 balls. Two towering sixes off Suyash Sharma turned the momentum Punjab's way, before Marcus Stoinis sealed the deal with a boundary in the 12th over. By this win, Punjab are now in the second position of the points table. Whereas RCB, losing the third match of this season, all at home, have managed to be in the top 4. Thus, in 2016, when Chinnaswamy echoed Kohli's heroics, it now stood silent with Punjab's storm.

IPL 2025 | Same rain, new reign: Punjab Kings rewrite 2016 script

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