'Captain' Virat Kohli Plots Punjab Kings Opener's Dismissal To Perfection For RCB - Watch

By Admin

30 May, 2025

In a high-stakes IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings, all eyes were on the experienced Virat Kohli — and he didn’t disappoint. While Rajat Patidar officially captains the side, it was Kohli who looked like the field marshal, marshalling his troops with passion and tactical brilliance.

Taking extra responsibility on a crucial night, Kohli's cricketing brain was in full display as he orchestrated the dismissal of Punjab Kings’ opener, Priyansh Arya, with precision. It was a moment that had fans and commentators buzzing — a clear reminder of why Kohli’s leadership instincts are still razor-sharp.

The Mastermind at Work

In a clip that has gone viral across social media platforms, Kohli was seen actively guiding pacer Yash Dayal just before the key dismissal. With quick hand gestures, he signaled Dayal to bowl in a way that would tempt Arya into a drive. Kohli’s field placement was equally spot on — he positioned Krunal Pandya perfectly to take advantage of the bait. Arya fell right into the trap, driving straight to Pandya and walking back to the pavilion stunned.

Throughout the match, Kohli could be seen animatedly talking to bowlers, helping Patidar with field placements, and constantly lifting the team’s energy with his enthusiasm. Commentators were quick to praise his proactive approach and on-field leadership — a throwback to the days when Kohli led the franchise with passion and intensity.

RCB’s Dominant March to the Final

Backed by this strategic brilliance and an all-round performance, RCB skittled out Punjab Kings for a paltry 101 in just 14.1 overs. Punjab’s aggressive batting strategy collapsed under pressure, unable to counter RCB’s disciplined bowling attack.

Chasing the modest target, RCB made quick work of the run chase. Opener Phil Salt was in beast mode, hammering 56 runs off just 27 balls, including six boundaries and three sixes. He made the chase look effortless, with Punjab’s bowlers having no answers to his power hitting.

The final blow came when skipper Rajat Patidar slog-swept Musheer Khan for a six, sealing RCB’s place in their first IPL final since 2016.

What’s Next?

While RCB heads to Ahmedabad for the title clash on June 3, Punjab Kings will regroup for another shot in Qualifier 2 on June 1. Despite their historic entry into the play-offs after 11 years, their batters faltered under pressure — a mistake they’ll hope not to repeat.

For RCB fans, this match wasn’t just about a win. It was a reminder of Kohli’s enduring legacy — as a player, a mentor, and yes, still very much a captain at heart.