Virat Kohli Sledges Musheer Khan During Qualifier 1 Of IPL 2025

Mullanpur, May 30, 2025 — The IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium was not only a showcase of RCB’s dominance but also became the center of a controversy involving Virat Kohli and PBKS debutant Musheer Khan.

RCB’s Dominant Performance Secures Final Berth

RCB delivered a clinical performance, dismantling PBKS for a paltry 101 runs in just 14.1 overs. The bowling unit, led by Josh Hazlewood (3/21) and Suyash Sharma (3/17), exploited the conditions effectively, leaving PBKS reeling. In response, RCB chased down the target with ease, reaching 102/2 in just 10 overs, thanks to a brisk half-century from Phil Salt. This victory propels RCB into their first IPL final since 2016, bringing them closer to their maiden title.

The ‘Water Boy’ Controversy: Kohli’s Sledge Under Scrutiny

The match’s intensity was overshadowed by an incident in the ninth over of PBKS’s innings. As 20-year-old Musheer Khan walked out to bat, making his IPL debut as an Impact Substitute, Kohli, stationed at first slip, was seen gesturing and allegedly referring to Musheer as a “water boy,” reportedly saying, “Yeh paani pilata hai” (This guy carries drinks). The moment, captured on live broadcast, quickly went viral, igniting debates across social media platforms.

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden, on commentary, remarked, “Look at Virat Kohli at the first slip. Just letting him know that he’s a debutant in a pretty big match. He’s saying, ‘who is this guy?'” Harsha Bhogle added context by noting Musheer’s cricketing lineage, being the younger brother of Indian Test cricketer Sarfaraz Khan.

The incident has divided opinions. Critics argue that Kohli’s comment was disrespectful to a young debutant, potentially undermining his confidence. Supporters, however, view it as typical on-field banter, emphasizing the competitive nature of high-stakes matches. Notably, earlier in the season, Kohli had gifted Musheer a bat, with the latter expressing gratitude on Instagram, referring to Kohli as “Virat Bhaiyya.”

Musheer Khan’s Brief Innings Amidst Team Collapse

Musheer’s debut was short-lived. Facing just three deliveries, he was dismissed for a duck by Suyash Sharma. His entry came during a catastrophic collapse for PBKS, who were reduced to 60/6 by the ninth over. The team never recovered, eventually being bowled out for 101.

RCB’s Road to the Final: A Season of Resilience

RCB’s journey to the final has been marked by consistent performances and strategic acumen. The team has showcased depth in both batting and bowling departments. Phil Salt’s aggressive half-century in the qualifier exemplifies the team’s batting prowess, while the bowling unit, with Hazlewood and Sharma, has been instrumental in restricting opponents.

Captain Rajat Patidar, reflecting on the team’s performance, stated, “One more game and we can achieve what we’ve been striving for. The team is focused and ready.”

PBKS’s Path Forward: Redemption in Qualifier 2

Despite the heavy defeat, PBKS’s IPL journey isn’t over. They have another opportunity to reach the final by winning Qualifier 2 against the winner of the Eliminator match. Captain Shreyas Iyer acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, emphasizing the need for introspection and improved performance in the upcoming match.

A Match Remembered for Performance and Controversy

The IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 will be remembered not just for RCB’s emphatic victory but also for the controversy surrounding Kohli’s comment to Musheer Khan. As RCB prepares for the final, the incident serves as a reminder of the fine line between competitive spirit and sportsmanship. The cricketing community awaits further developments, hoping for clarity and resolution.

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