Virat Kohli's kids Vamika, Akaay dragged into Musheer Khan 'Paani Pilata Hai' controversy

Virat Kohli has yet again found himself in hot water after a video clip from the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 sparked outrage among the cricket fraternity. During the high-stakes Qualifier 1 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), Virat Kohli was seen sledging young batter Musheer Khan, and the moment quickly went viral on social media.

As the clip went viral on social media, many fans have been slamming Kohli for the words he used to rattle the young Punjab Kings batter during the intense clash in Chandigarh. The incident unfolded when Musheer Khan stepped out to bat in the ninth over against the RCB.

Virat Kohli faces heat over Musheer Khan jibe

Virat Kohli, fielding at first slip, made a blistering remark to unsettle Musheer. In the video clip, Kohli was heard saying, “Yeh paani pilaata hai. (He serves water),” referring to how the right-handed batter had been serving drinks for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2025.

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The comment may have been part of Kohli’s trademark on-field aggression, but many felt it crossed a line, especially given that Musheer is a young and rising star. Many accused Kohli of disrespecting the young talent for the sake of asserting dominance on the field.

However, some fans defended him, saying it was just typical match-day banter and nothing more. They argued that Kohli was merely pointing out that Musheer had been brought on as an impact substitute moments after serving the water.

Even if he plays with his own baby, he would like to win: Atul Wassan defends Virat Kohli

Now, former India pacer Atul Wassan has reacted to the controversy, downplaying the incident and suggesting that such fiery moments are normal in competitive games. He noted that Kohli's passion and desire to win bring out his aggressive edge, something fans have seen for years.

Wassan even light-heartedly suggested that Virat Kohli would show the same intensity regardless of who he’s up against, even in a match with his own baby at home.

Atul Wassan said on the OTTplay ‘Bails and Banter’ show, “Virat has a competitive nature; even if he plays with his own baby, he would like to win. One should not feel bad about it. When you are playing the game, consider yourself equal, and don't expect an inch, nor give an inch.”

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Atul Wassan says sledging is normal

Wassan said that sledging is part of the game and players should be allowed to express themselves as long as there's no physical clash. The former Indian bowler also pointed out that it's up to the match officials to decide what crosses the line.

Wassan added, “If you can't do the time, don't do the crime. If someone is doing it within the line, it's fine. Sledging is a mixture of sarcasm, wit, and being obnoxious. Of course, there should be no physical confrontation, but certain gestures should not be misinterpreted, which entirely depends on the match officials. You have to let people express themselves within the limits.”

Notably, RCB crushed PBKS by eight wickets in Qualifier 1 to reach the IPL 2025 final. Now, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face either Mumbai Indians or Punjab in the summit clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 3.