Virat Kohli, no longer Royal Challengers Bengaluru's captain, proved his leadership instincts remain sharp during RCB’s 11-run victory over Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025 at Chinnaswamy Stadium. Fielding in the deep, Kohli strategized with head coach Andy Flower and batting coach Dinesh Karthik, notably advising captain Rajat Patidar to persist with spinner Krunal Pandya after a ball change favored spin.

However, a humorous moment stole the spotlight when Kohli playfully rejected a suggestion from Karthik and Flower, folding his hands in refusal. Social media buzzed with theories that Karthik urged Kohli to bowl, an idea he dismissed. Post-match, Karthik praised Kohli’s “clear and precise” judgment and unmatched hunger, noting his 392 runs this season. With five half-centuries, Kohli trails Sai Sudarshan by 25 runs, eyeing a third Orange Cap.