IPL 2025: Kohli’s Outburst After Controversial Mankad Appeal Goes Viral

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pulled off a dramatic 6-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at Ekana Stadium, securing second place on the IPL 2025 points table and a berth in Qualifier 1 against Punjab Kings.

However, the high-octane game took a controversial turn when LSG’s Digvesh Rathi attempted a Mankad dismissal on RCB batter Jitesh Sharma at the non-striker’s end. Though legal by the rules, the move is widely debated as unsportsmanlike. Watching from the dugout, Virat Kohli reacted furiously, slamming a bottle against the glass and engaging in a heated exchange, a moment that quickly went viral online.

Chasing a formidable target of 228, RCB started strong with Phil Salt and Kohli scoring 61 in just under six overs. But a middle-order collapse saw Salt, Patidar, Livingstone, and Kohli (54 off 30) dismissed in quick succession. Under pressure, Jitesh Sharma delivered a blistering knock—85 off 33 balls—with Mayank Agarwal providing steady support.

The duo guided RCB to their highest-ever successful chase in IPL history, clinching victory in the final over.

Adding to the drama, replays showed Rathi had overstepped during the Mankad attempt. Though LSG captain Rishabh Pant initially seemed to withdraw the appeal, Rathi confirmed it after conferring with the umpire, creating confusion and tension.

Kohli’s outburst not only reflected the pressure of the moment but reignited debate about the Mankad rule’s place in modern cricket. While RCB celebrated a thrilling win, the incident became the most talked-about moment of the match.