In a heartwarming moment ahead of the IPL 2025 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur, Virat Kohli was seen folding his hands and even going down on one knee in a playful, respectful gesture as he greeted his former coach Rahul Dravid. The reunion took place during a practice session at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, capturing the deep bond the two share despite now being on opposite sides of the cricketing divide.
Dravid, currently recovering from a leg fracture and attending RR’s matches in a wheelchair, was visibly delighted as Kohli approached him with a beaming smile. The ex-India skipper embraced Dravid warmly, before sharing a light moment that had both Dravid and RR captain Sanju Samson bursting into laughter.
Camaraderie between Kohli and Dravid
Their relationship, built during their time together in the Indian dressing room from 2021 to 2024, continues to thrive even after Dravid stepped down as head coach and Kohli retired from T20Is. The duo had a memorable moment in Barbados last year when India clinched the T20 World Cup against South Africa. Amid the celebrations, Dravid jokingly reminded Kohli of the one trophy left to win the World Test Championshipafter ticking off the ODI World Cup, Champions Trophy, and T20 World Cup.
RR vs RCB preview
Rajasthan Royals host Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Sawai Mansingh stadium in what promises to be an exciting clash of skills. RR is looking to bounce back after a 58-run defeat to Gujarat Titans in their last match. Sanju Samson, RR's top scorer in IPL 2025 with 178 runs, will lead the charge. Other key players to watch out for are Shimron Hetmyer, Riyan Parag, and Dhruv Jurel. The Royals' bowling attack, led by Jofra Archer and Wanindu Hasaranga, will aim to restrict RCB's scoring.
RCB, on the other hand, has won three out of five matches this season. Virat Kohli has been in excellent form, scoring 186 runs with two half-centuries. Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar, and Liam Livingstone will also be crucial to RCB's success. The team's bowling attack, featuring Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood, will look to contain RR's batters.
