Virat Kohli was a livewire in the field during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) high-stakes Qualifier 1 clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2025. While Rajat Patidar returned to lead the side, taking over the captaincy reins from interim skipper Jitesh Sharma, it was Kohli who appeared to be the real driving force early on.

From setting the field to constantly charging up his teammates, the 36-year-old veteran was fully locked in—his body language radiating intensity and purpose. Virat Kohli, known for his fierce competitiveness and raw passion, was seen sledging PBKS batters in typical Kohli fashion. One moment, in particular, sparked a storm of reactions on social media.

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As PBKS brought in youngster Musheer Khan as an Impact Substitute amid a collapse, Kohli couldn’t resist taking a jab at the debutant. He was overheard mocking Musheer, saying he had only come on to serve water a few overs ago—implying he was more of a bystander than a game-changer.

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‘Virat Kohli Insulting Indian player saying “sending Water bottle player to play” worst behaviour what a cheap cricketer shameless creature.’#RCBvsPBKS #ViratKohli | Trophy | Finals | RCB RCB | Congratulations RCB| INTO THE FINALS pic.twitter.com/eWIskGoBew

— IndiaPulse: News & Trends (@IndiaPulseNow) May 30, 2025

Kohli saying “Ye to Pani pilata hai” to young Musheer Khan. Kohli is such a creep and shameless person. pic.twitter.com/Zs2GGDUGBN

— RISHIT SHARMA (@Rishit_264) May 29, 2025

Kohli literally gifted him his bat, and Musheer calls him bhaiya. Kohli has every right to tease his younger brother. Don’t you guys tease your younger brothers

Stop spreading false agendas ffs pic.twitter.com/Hd0d9I6xQq

— . (@chixxreturns) May 29, 2025

Musheer Khan, who happens to be the younger brother of India Test player Sarfaraz Khan, was making his IPL debut under immense pressure. Kohli’s remark, intended to unsettle the youngster, was labelled ‘unsporting’ by some fans. Others came to Kohli’s defence, reminding critics that he had gifted Musheer a bat earlier in the season and that the youngster openly idolises the RCB superstar.

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While opinions were divided, one thing was clear—this was classic Kohli. In a knockout game, emotions run high, and Kohli used every tactic to gain a psychological edge. His sledging wasn’t personal, just part of the on-field mind games that often define crucial IPL moments. And with PBKS’ batting in tatters, Kohli sensed an opportunity to push RCB into total control—and he grabbed it with both hands.