Virat Kohli once again proved why he is one of the fiercest competitors in world cricket with a stunning counterattack against Matheesha Pathirana in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 match between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). In the 10th over, a sharp bouncer from Pathirana struck Kohli flush on the helmet, momentarily halting play as the physio rushed in for a concussion check. However, Kohli, unfazed by the blow, responded spectacularly, smashing a massive six and a classy four on the very next two deliveries. This aggressive intent sent a clear message to the opposition – Kohli doesn’t back down from a challenge.
Matheesha Pathirana’s brutal bouncer stuns Virat Kohli
The 10th over of the innings saw Pathirana unleash a well-directed short-pitched delivery, targeting Kohli’s head. The ball rushed off the surface, skidding at high pace, catching Kohli by surprise. As he attempted a pull shot, he misjudged the bounce, and the ball struck him flush on the helmet grille. The impact was solid, momentarily halting play as the physio rushed onto the field for a mandatory concussion check. Kohli, known for his resilience, quickly signaled that he was fine, brushing off the discomfort. The incident added intensity to the contest, with Chennai fielders hoping to unsettle the former RCB captain. However, what followed next was Kohli’s trademark response to adversity—an aggressive counterattack.
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A stunning riposte: Kohli smashes Pathirana for six
After the helmet blow, Pathirana tried another short-pitched delivery, hoping to unsettle Kohli. But the Indian maestro was ready this time. With sheer precision, Kohli swiveled on his back foot and hooked the ball over the fine leg boundary for a six. The shot was executed with perfect timing, and the ball sailed deep into the stands, sending the Chennai crowd into a frenzy. This was vintage Kohli – absorbing the pressure and retaliating with an authoritative stroke. The confidence with which he played the shot showcased his ability to dominate even the best of bowlers under pressure.
Flawless wristwork: Kohli flicks for four over midwicket
Pathirana then adjusted his length, pitching the ball fuller to prevent another hook shot. However, Kohli was equally prepared. Using his world-class wristwork, he effortlessly flicked the ball over midwicket for a four. The ball raced past Noor Ahmad, who had no chance of cutting it off. This shot demonstrated Kohli’s adaptability, as he transitioned seamlessly from raw power to elegant timing. In just three deliveries, he turned the momentum back in RCB’s favor, proving why he remains a nightmare for fast bowlers worldwide.
Here’s the video:
1st ball – 😮💨
2nd ball – 6️⃣That’s what it’s like facing the GEN GOLD! ❤
Classy counter from #ViratKohli! 🙌🏻
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