IPL 2025: Virat Kohli Furious at Digvesh Rathi Over Mankad – Video Goes Viral
In a heated IPL 2025 clash between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), tempers flared when Digvesh Rathi attempted a controversial Mankad dismissal on Jitesh Sharma. What followed was a fiery reaction from Virat Kohli, whose anger has since gone viral across social media. This explosive moment not only stirred debate around the spirit of cricket but also became a defining incident in RCB’s high-stakes 6-wicket win.
What Sparked Kohli’s Anger?
The incident occurred during the 17th over when RCB was chasing a mammoth 228-run target. Jitesh Sharma, who was anchoring the innings, was nearly run out at the non-striker’s end by Digvesh Rathi through a Mankading attempt. Though legal under MCC Law 38.3, this form of dismissal often draws ethical scrutiny.
Why It Was Ruled Not Out:
- Rathi overstepped the popping crease.
- Despite appealing initially, LSG captain Rishabh Pant withdrew the appeal.
- With no valid appeal, the third umpire declared Sharma not out.
But when the umpire confirmed that the bowler had indeed appealed before the withdrawal, a visibly frustrated Virat Kohli reacted by slamming a bottle against the dressing room glass, as seen in the now-viral video clip.
“Kohli’s passion is legendary, but this incident underlines the emotional stakes during high-pressure matches.” — Harsha Bhogle, cricket analyst
Understanding the Mankad Rule
What is Mankading?
Mankading refers to the bowler running out the non-striker before delivering the ball if the batter leaves the crease too early.
MCC Law 38.3 – Key Takeaways:
- Legal dismissal if the non-striker leaves the crease.
- Requires a valid appeal from the fielding team.
- Still debated as it often conflicts with the “spirit of the game.”
Notable Past Mankading Incidents:
- 🏏 Ravichandran Ashwin dismissed Jos Buttler (IPL 2019)
- 🏏 Deepti Sharma ran out Charlotte Dean (ENG vs IND, 2022)
Match Recap: RCB vs LSG
Despite the tension, Royal Challengers Bangalore put on a stellar chase:
Key Highlights:
- Kohli and Phil Salt gave RCB a flying start (61/1 in 5.4 overs)
- Middle-order collapse as Patidar (14), Livingstone (0) fell cheaply
- Kohli contributed a crucial 54 off 30 before getting dismissed
Jitesh Sharma’s Captain’s Knock:
- 85 runs in just 33 balls
- 8 fours and 6 sixes
- Took RCB to victory with 7 balls to spare
This was RCB’s highest-ever successful run chase in IPL history.
Statistical Snapshot
- Target: 228 runs
- RCB’s Final Score: 230/4 in 18.5 overs
- Jitesh Sharma’s Strike Rate: 257.58
- Winning Margin: 6 wickets
- RCB’s Standing: Secured 2nd place in league stage
What’s Next for RCB?
With this emphatic win, RCB qualifies for Qualifier 1 against Punjab Kings on May 29, 2025. A win there would take them straight to the IPL 2025 final, while a loss would give them a second chance in Qualifier
Suggested Infographic
Title: Understanding Mankading: Rules, Reactions, and Records
Contents:
- Definition of Mankading
- Law 38.3 breakdown
- High-profile Mankad cases
- Timeline of IPL 2025’s controversial incident
- Social media sentiment snapshot
📌 Visual elements:
- Illustration of a Mankad dismissal
- Quote from Virat Kohli on sportsmanship
- Comparison chart: Legal vs ethical aspects
Expert Reactions
- Gautam Gambhir: “Rules are rules. If you’re outside the crease, expect consequences.”
- Sunil Gavaskar: “It’s not about legality; it’s about upholding cricket’s spirit.”
- Fans on social media are split – some blame Rathi, others back Kohli’s passionate response.
