During the opening match of the IPL 2025 season between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Eden Gardens on March 23, an unusual incident occurred. A fan, Rhituparno Pakhira, scaled the fence and ran onto the field to meet Virat Kohli while he was batting for RCB.
Although security intervened, Pakhira managed to hug Kohli before being restrained. Noticing the rough handling by security, Kohli stepped in, asking them to be gentle. Pakhira, who had recently completed his higher secondary exams, was briefly held in custody for two days but has since been released.
In a video shared by RevSportz on X, Pakhira expressed his joy at meeting Kohli and revealed his plans for the shirt he wore during the encounter.
“Virat Kohli told the guards not to hit me and to take me carefully out of the field of play. I can’t describe how it felt hugging him. His voice was so sweet, it is still ringing in my head.”
”As for this shirt, I will frame it as it has his sweat in it. That day, Kohli was sweating heavily, and after I hugged him, all that sweat touched my shirt. I will never wash this shirt, and frame it,” said Pakhira.
You can watch the video here:
https://twitter.com/revsportzglobal/status/1904782620233523625?s=46
Virat Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru began their IPL 2025 campaign with a victory
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) began their IPL 2025 campaign with a convincing victory, defeating defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders by seven wickets in their opening match in Kolkata on Saturday, March 23.
Virat Kohli played a key role in RCB’s win, scoring an unbeaten 59 off 36 balls and helping his team chase down the 175-run target in just 16.2 overs. The Indian batting star opened the innings alongside former KKR wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt.
Salt contributed a quick 56 off 31 deliveries, forming a 95-run opening stand with Kohli. Later, newly appointed skipper Rajat Patidar smashed 34 off 16 balls, ensuring RCB’s smooth finish. RCB will next face Chennai Super Kings away from home on Friday, March 28.
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