IPL 2025: Kohli nearly throws water bottle after Digvesh Rathi’s ‘mankad’ attempt on Jitesh Sharma
Bengaluru: A dramatic moment unfolded during the high-octane IPL 2025 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), as rising LSG leg-spinner Digvesh Singh Rathi attempted a controversial 'Mankad' dismissal on stand-in RCB skipper Jitesh Sharma. The attempt triggered an emotional outburst from senior RCB pro Virat Kohli, who was caught on camera nearly throwing a water bottle in the dressing room in visible frustration.
The incident occurred in the 17th over of RCB's innings when Rathi, mid-delivery, paused and turned toward the stumps at the non-striker's end in an attempt to run Jitesh out. Although eventually Jitesh was declared not out by the third umpire, the move did not sit well with Kohli, who was watching from the dugout.
Interestingly, Rathi had nearly dismissed Jitesh earlier in the same over when the batter reverse swept the ball straight to Ayush Badoni at point. Rathi began celebrating, but the joy was short-lived as the umpire signaled a rare backfoot no-ball, rendering the delivery invalid. This turn of events seemed to rattle Rathi, who ended the night wicketless despite a promising season overall.
Jitesh Sharma responded to the drama in style, playing a captain’s knock of 85 off just 33 balls, peppered with 8 boundaries and 6 sixes, at an incredible strike rate of 257.58. Partnering with Mayank Agarwal (41 off 23), Jitesh stitched a 107-run stand for the fifth wicket, helping RCB chase down a daunting 228-run target with eight balls remaining.
Earlier, Rishabh Pant lit up the evening with a masterful 118 off 61 deliveries for LSG, guiding his team to 227/3. The knock included innovative strokeplay and a celebration flip that captured fans' attention, but his efforts were ultimately in vain as RCB stormed to victory and secured a place in Qualifier 1 against Punjab Kings.
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Indian Defence forces committed to adapting to changing environment: CDS General Chauhan
Hyderabad (PTI): Asserting that war and warfare is at the cusp of a major revolution, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Saturday said the Indian Defence forces are committed to adapting to changing environment and imbibing reforms to remain ready and relevant.
Addressing the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of 216 Course held at the Air Force Academy at Dundigal near here, General Chauhan said India's strength rests on robust institutions, democratic stability, and unwavering professionalism of our Armed Forces.
He said the intensity of operations may have ebbed, but Operation Sindoor continues.
"You (new officers) also join the Air Force at a moment when a new normal has firmly taken shape. An era defined by a high degree of operational preparedness, 24-7, 365 days. The intensity of operations may have ebbed, but Operation Sindhur continues," he said.
He further said the newly trained officers are entering the Indian Air Force during a phase of deep transformation of the Indian Armed Forces.
Integrated structures, joint operations, and national pursuit of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence are shaping the future of India's military strength, he said.
"Your journey ahead will be accordingly guided by Jai, the first word of Jai Hind, that's victory. 'J' stands for jointness, fighting as one nation, one force. 'A' stands for Atmanirbhar Bharat, trusted platforms and systems made not just for India but for the world. And finally, 'I' for innovation, daring to think ahead and to be ahead of the curve," he explained.
General Chauhan further said battles in the older domains will always remain contested, often brutal. But in the new domains, they will be smart, swift, and shaped by intellect, innovation, and initiative. The force that masters new frontiers is more likely to prevail in future conflicts.
