Furious Virat Kohli Nearly Throws Bottle After Digvesh Rathi’s Non-striker Run-out Attempt On Jitesh Sharma In LSG Vs RCB IPL 2025 Clash

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 witnessed one of its most electrifying and emotionally charged encounters yet as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) edged out Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by six wickets in a nail-biting chase of 228 runs. The thrilling contest, played under floodlights at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, had everything cricket fans crave: explosive batting, strategic brilliance, and a fiery on-field controversy involving two of the game’s most intense competitors — Virat Kohli and Digvesh Rathi.

At the heart of RCB’s stunning victory was an extraordinary innings by Jitesh Sharma, whose 85 runs off just 33 balls transformed the game and propelled his team to their highest-ever successful run chase in IPL history. This win not only catapulted RCB into the coveted second position on the points table but also secured them a high-stakes Qualifier 1 clash against Punjab Kings on May 29.

Yet, amidst the thunderous boundaries and breathtaking finishes, the match’s defining moment arguably came off the bat: a heated confrontation sparked by LSG’s Digvesh Rathi’s controversial attempt to run out Jitesh Sharma at the non-striker’s end, igniting visible fury from Kohli and reigniting long-standing debates about cricket’s spirit and laws.

Setting the Stage: A Contest for Playoff Supremacy

With the IPL playoffs looming large, every game in the closing stages takes on immense significance, and this match was no different. LSG and RCB, two teams packed with star power and flair, were battling not just for the three points but for momentum and psychological advantage heading into the knockout rounds.

LSG, led by the formidable Rishabh Pant, had been consistent all season, and their ability to set imposing targets made them a difficult side to beat at home. Chasing 228 runs, RCB faced one of their sternest challenges yet, with the onus on their big guns to deliver under pressure.

Early Blitz: RCB’s Promising Start

RCB’s innings began with intent. Opener Phil Salt was aggressive from ball one, finding gaps and punishing anything loose, while Virat Kohli, fresh from his recent Test retirement, looked in sublime touch. The pair put on a blazing 61-run partnership in just under six overs, signaling RCB’s intent to chase down the mammoth target.

Kohli was particularly impressive, scoring a fluent 54 off 30 balls, peppered with crisp boundaries and a six that sent the crowd into raptures. However, the innings took a sudden twist when Salt was dismissed for 30, followed by quick wickets of Rajat Patidar and Liam Livingstone, threatening to derail RCB’s chase.

With Kohli falling soon after, RCB found themselves precariously placed — 105 runs still needed off the final 52 balls. The stage was set for a heroic counter-attack.

Jitesh Sharma’s Heroics: A Blitzkrieg for the Ages

Enter Jitesh Sharma — a name that will be etched into IPL folklore after his sensational knock. Facing an uphill battle, Jitesh’s innings was the perfect mix of composure and carnage, featuring 6 towering sixes and 8 crisp fours that dismantled LSG’s bowling attack.

His aggressive strokeplay left bowlers searching for answers, as he accelerated the scoring at an electrifying rate, turning the tide firmly in RCB’s favor. Partnering with Mayank Agarwal, who provided valuable support, Jitesh’s onslaught helped RCB inch closer to the target with every over.

His 85 runs from 33 balls was more than just a high-scoring cameo — it was a masterclass in pacing a chase under pressure, blending patience with explosive hitting.

The Controversy: Kohli’s Fiery Reaction to Digvesh Rathi’s Run-Out Attempt

While the batting spectacle took center stage, an intense episode unfolded off the field that added spice and drama to the encounter. During a crucial phase of the innings, when RCB was mounting their comeback, Digvesh Rathi of LSG attempted a controversial run-out of Jitesh Sharma at the non-striker’s end.

The tactic — sometimes called a “Mankad” — is within the laws of cricket but has long been debated for its sportsmanship implications. Rathi’s move, just before bowling, caught the RCB camp off guard, sparking uproar.

Replays revealed Rathi had overstepped during the attempt, prompting the third umpire to rule Jitesh not out. The drama escalated when Rishabh Pant initially withdrew the appeal, only to reverse the decision after the umpire’s intervention, reigniting the controversy.

From the RCB dugout, Virat Kohli’s reaction was immediate and intense. The former captain was caught on camera slamming a water bottle against the glass barrier in frustration and exchanging heated words, his visible anger speaking volumes. The moment quickly went viral, drawing polarized reactions from fans and pundits alike.

The Spirit of the Game: A Divided Response

The attempted run-out sparked widespread debate. Supporters argued that the rule exists to prevent batters from gaining unfair advantage by backing up too far, and thus Rathi was within his rights. Critics, however, contended that such dismissals challenge the gentleman’s spirit traditionally upheld in cricket, especially during T20 matches where the emphasis is on entertainment.

Kohli’s passionate response was lauded by many for reflecting the emotional intensity of the game and the stakes involved, while others questioned whether the display was too intense for a moment governed by the letter of the law.

The Final Push: Sealing the Win

After weathering the storm of controversy, RCB’s focus returned to the chase. Jitesh Sharma’s aggressive approach ensured no room for LSG bowlers to settle, and with Mayank Agarwal providing vital stability, the target was eventually conquered with six wickets in hand and balls to spare.

This chase, marked by explosive batting and nerve-wracking moments, was RCB’s highest successful run chase in IPL history, sending waves of joy through their supporters and putting them in pole position for the playoffs.

What This Win Means for RCB

With this vital victory, Royal Challengers Bengaluru climb to second place on the IPL points table, gaining a psychological edge heading into Qualifier 1 against Punjab Kings. The confidence gained from overcoming a massive target against a strong opponent will surely boost their morale.

Jitesh Sharma’s heroics position him as one of the breakout stars of the tournament, while Kohli’s passionate leadership and response indicate his relentless hunger for success despite recent ups and downs.

Looking Ahead: The Road to the IPL Trophy

RCB’s journey is far from over, and their next encounter with Punjab Kings promises to be another high-stakes thriller. Both teams have shown resilience and flair throughout the season, and the winner of Qualifier 1 will be just a step away from a coveted IPL final berth.

The drama of this match — the on-field fireworks, the controversy, and the sheer brilliance of individual performances — encapsulates why the IPL continues to captivate millions worldwide.

The RCB vs LSG IPL 2025 clash was a microcosm of what makes the IPL extraordinary: breathtaking cricket, intense rivalries, and moments that transcend sport into drama. Jitesh Sharma’s blistering knock, combined with Kohli’s fiery passion and the controversial run-out attempt by Digvesh Rathi, created a narrative that will be remembered long after the final ball.

As RCB march into Qualifier 1, fans can expect more heart-stopping moments, where skill and spirit will collide in the quest for cricketing glory.

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