Virat Kohli's Frustration Over RCB's Team Song During Practice Ahead of IPL 2025

As the IPL 2025 resumes, Virat Kohli's practice session with RCB took an unexpected turn when he voiced his displeasure over the loud team song. This match against KKR marks Kohli's first competitive appearance since retiring from Test cricket, raising questions about his performance and the impact of weather on KKR's playoff chances. With rain potentially affecting the match, both teams face critical stakes. Read on to find out more about Kohli's reaction and the implications for the teams involved.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 17, 2025, 17:51 IST

IPL 2025 Resumes with RCB vs KKR Match

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to kick off again this Saturday, featuring a match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Star player Virat Kohli was seen practicing with the team on Friday, and the franchise shared a video on social media showcasing his impressive batting skills.

Kohli's Discontent with Venue Sound System

Reports indicate that Kohli expressed dissatisfaction with the sound system during the practice session. It was noted that he became irritated, prompting the team to turn off the music.

During RCB's training session, Kohli joined the batting group after about an hour and a half. Following a few solid shots, he took a break and showed his displeasure when the RCB team song was played loudly. He made it clear to those around him that he wanted the music silenced, allowing for a quieter environment where only the sounds of the bat hitting the ball and casual conversations could be heard.

Kohli's First Competitive Match Post-Test Retirement

This match will mark Kohli's first appearance in competitive cricket since he announced his retirement from Test cricket, a decision that surprised many fans and analysts alike, given his strong affinity for the format. He had previously stepped back from T20 Internationals in June of last year after India's victory in the T20 World Cup.

Impact of Weather on KKR's Playoff Chances

A rain-affected match on Saturday could significantly impact KKR's chances of making it to the playoffs. Currently, the three-time champions have accumulated 11 points with only two matches left. If the game is called off and points are shared, they could reach a maximum of 14 points, which may not be sufficient for playoff qualification. Earlier this season, KKR also faced a rainout against Punjab Kings (PBKS).

In contrast, RCB finds itself in a more favorable position. Even if Saturday's match does not occur, they are still well-placed to qualify for the playoffs and potentially secure a top-two finish.