IPL 2025: ‘Jaldi se bhaag ja,’ is what Virat Kohli said to fan who fell at his feet during RCB vs KKR match

An 18-year-old cricket fan, Rhituparno Pakhira, not only caused a brief disruption during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens on Saturday but also managed to fulfill his lifelong dream.

Pakhira breached security and ran onto the field to touch Virat Kohli’s feet during the 13th over of the game. Kohli had just reached his half-century when the incident occurred, momentarily halting play.

Kohli's Response to the Unexpected Encounter

Pakhira, a resident of Jamalpur in the Purba Bardhaman district and a budding cricketer, scaled the fence near the ‘G’ Block of the stadium, breached past security and ran into the field towards Virat Kohli.

He fell at Kohli’s feet, prompting the former India captain to lift him up, ask his name, and advise him, "Jaldi se bhaag ja" (run away fast), reported The Times of India.

This picture says it all...!!!!🥹❤️

- This is what he has earned. pic.twitter.com/j5Kd2vDHe1

— Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) March 22, 2025

In another sign of his mature understanding and humility, the veteran Indian batter also gestured to the security personnel to handle the situation gently and not harm the intruder before he was escorted off the field.

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Legal Consequences and Stadium Ban

Following the incident, Kolkata police arrested Pakhira and took him to Maidan Police Station, where he was charged under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for criminal trespass, using force against on-duty police personnel, and actions endangering public safety.

The court granted him bail on Monday with a bond of Rs 1,000 but barred him from entering Eden Gardens or its vicinity for the remainder of the IPL season. The police have been directed to ensure he does not acquire match tickets.

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A Fan’s Determination Despite Arrest

Despite spending a day in police custody, Pakhira remained resolute in his actions, expressing no regret. "I met my god. There cannot be a better feeling," he said. Meanwhile, his mother pleaded for leniency, emphasizing his admiration for Kohli and his aspirations in cricket.

On the other hand, RCB went on to win the match, defeating KKR with 7 wickets to spare, in the inaugural match of the IPL 2025.