Fans Honor Virat Kohli Ahead of IPL 2025 Match
Tribute to a Cricket Legend
Supporters of Virat Kohli gathered outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, proudly wearing jerseys emblazoned with the number 18 before the IPL 2025 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). This display was a heartfelt tribute to Kohli's contributions to Indian cricket, particularly in Test matches.
Merchandise including caps and jerseys was available for purchase outside the venue as fans arrived early to honor the former Indian captain. Many wore white Test jerseys featuring the number 18, and some carried posters with messages celebrating Kohli's illustrious Test career.
The area surrounding the stadium was bustling with traffic due to the large turnout. Fans shared their thoughts on the IPL's return and Kohli's retirement from Test cricket at the age of 36. Police managed the crowd effectively, as chants of "RCB" and "Virat" echoed through the air.
Watch here:
To Virat, with LOVE! π€
β Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) May 17, 2025
A lovely gesture by the fans in Bengaluru, donning white jerseys to pay tribute to Virat Kohli's incredible Test journey! π
Watch the LIVE action β‘ https://t.co/r4DtdEw2gv#IPLonJioStar π RCB π KKR | LIVE NOW on Star Sports-1, Star Sports-1 Hindi,β¦ pic.twitter.com/AhDrlXxBAV
RCB and KKR are set to face off in the first match following the suspension of IPL 2025 due to security concerns. RCB has a solid chance to secure a top-two finish in the points table, which would allow them to compete in Qualifier 1. Conversely, KKR must win to keep their tournament hopes alive.
The defending champions have struggled in the 18th season of the league but are determined to give their all in this match to qualify for the playoffs and defend their title.
Weather conditions may pose a challenge, as forecasts suggest rain could impact the toss and gameplay. A victory for the home team would guarantee their playoff spot, while a loss or a no-result would end the defending champions' campaign.