Punjab Kings found themselves in deep trouble during Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025, having lost four wickets in the powerplay. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, however, showed no mercy as they continued to dismantle the batting line-up with the quick dismissals of Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh, reducing Punjab to a dismal 60/6. In a desperate attempt to stabilize the innings, PBKS brought in Musheer Khan as an Impact Player, hoping he could control the collapse and help set a competitive total.
As Musheer Khan took guard, RCB’s young spinner Suyash Sharma was brought into the attack. He started with two well-pitched googlies that Musheer defended confidently, showing signs of resilience. However, Virat Kohli, ever observant and involved, was quick to notice a potential weakness in the batter’s technique. He informed the RCB captain that Musheer tends to rely on the sweep shot, a risky strategy on a turning pitch.
Taking Kohli’s advice seriously, Suyash flighted the third delivery a bit more, inviting a big shot. Just as Kohli had anticipated, Musheer attempted the sweep. The ball, however, didn’t turn and skidded straight into the pads, trapping him plumb in front. The appeal was immediate and successful, sending Musheer back and further deepening Punjab’s woes.
Kohli’s tactical contribution from the field was yet another example of his cricketing intelligence and leadership. His input not only led to a crucial breakthrough but also demonstrated his presence of mind and team-first approach, even before stepping out to bat. RCB’s energy on the field was electric, with every player feeding off the momentum.
Did anyone else notice the (probable) lip-sync and gestures from Virat Kohli when Musheer Khan was taking guard?
— Siddhesh Khirwadkar (@sid_khirwadkar) May 29, 2025
If true, that’s surprising even by his own standards. Definitely not the best demeanour from a 'legend of the game.'#IPL2025 #PBKSvRCB @PunjabKingsIPL @RCBTweets pic.twitter.com/8fQNodGWRD
— Birdman (@kingbirdman22) May 29, 2025
— Birdman (@kingbirdman22) May 29, 2025
As Punjab Kings struggled to post even a defendable score, RCB’s dominance was evident. The early breakthroughs and calculated strategies highlighted why they had made it this far in the tournament. Kohli’s involvement in every aspect of the game — from field placements to tactical reads — was pivotal in setting the tone for what looked like a one-sided affair.