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In the aftermath of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic IPL 2025 triumph, a single remark from Virat Kohli has sparked heated debate across the cricketing world.
While Kohli finally tasted glory after 18 seasons of loyalty to a single franchise, his pointed comments about the ‘Impact Player’ rule have led many to speculate whether he was subtly questioning fellow Indian stalwart Rohit Sharma’s approach this season.
During the post-match interview with Matthew Hayden, a visibly emotional Kohli said, “I cannot play as an impact player. I want to field 20 overs and make an impact in the field. That is the kind of player I have been.”
While the quote highlighted Kohli’s desire to remain actively involved in every facet of the game, social media was quick to draw parallels with Rohit Sharma, who was largely used as an Impact Player for the Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2025 and often remained off the field during their bowling innings.
Celebration Turns into Controversy
Kohli’s remarks came after RCB’s six-run win over Punjab Kings in a nail-biting final in Ahmedabad on Tuesday.
The veteran player scored 43 off 31 balls and remained central to the team’s identity throughout the season. The victory was particularly emotional for the RCB star, who was seen tearing up in the final over before Hazlewood sealed the win.
“I’ve given this team my youth, my prime and everything in between. This win is as much for the fans as it is for us,” Kohli said after the match, adding that he wanted to share the moment with former teammate AB de Villiers.
However, the joyous mood was slightly punctured by growing chatter around his comments, with many interpreting it as a direct, or at least indirect, critique of Sharma’s reduced on-field role for MI this season.
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Stampede Mars Bengaluru Celebrations
Meanwhile, back home in Bengaluru, what was supposed to be a night of jubilation turned tragic. A stampede outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday claimed the lives of three people and left over 10 injured. The crowd had gathered to welcome the team after their win and to witness their felicitation by Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah.
As crowds swelled and authorities failed to manage the flow, chaos erupted at the gates, leading to a crush. Police have launched an investigation into the lapses, even as hospitals continue to treat the injured.
