IPL 2025: Rinku Singh Ignores Virat Kohli: Did He Snub Handshake? Netizens React

The 18th season of Indian Premier League (IPL) kicked off in style on Saturday at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, with a high-energy opening ceremony, stunning performances, and a surprising on-stage moment that has since gone viral. As Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) prepared to defend their title in the season opener against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), the IPL event turned the spotlight on two of the most talked-about players-Virat Kohli and Rinku Singh.

Rinku Singh Ignores Virat Kohli's Handshake in IPL 2025?

The IPL 2025 began with a grand opening ceremony, led by Bollywood Superstar and principal owner of KKR, Shah Rukh Khan. However, the highlight of the evening was not just the performances, it was an unexpected moment between Rinku Singh and Virat Kohli that sparked a social media storm. As the Superstar Shah Rukh Khan introduced the two IPL stars on stage, in a viral video on the internet, Kohli could be seen attempting to shake Rinku's hand when the two crossed each other.

But when the KKR star Singh made his way to the stage, he walked past Virat Kohli, who extended his hand for a handshake. Rinku, however, bypassed Kohli without acknowledging him, despite the latter's attempt to greet him. This moment quickly went viral, with fans debating the awkward encounter on social media.

Fans Reaction on Rinku Singh's Allegedly Snub To Virat Kohli

The moment sparked intense conversation online, with many fans wondering if there was some underlying tension between the two players. What made the situation even more puzzling was the fact that Rinku and Virat share a good rapport, and just last year, Kohli had gifted Rinku a bat.

Some speculate that the incident may have been accidental or simply a misunderstanding, while others feel it might have been an intentional snub. Regardless, the moment overshadowed what was otherwise a festive and celebratory occasion. Social media users were quick to analyze the video from all angles, making it one of the most talked-about moments of IPL 2025's opening night.

Shah Rukh Khan's Stellar Opening Speech

Shah Rukh Khan opened the IPL 2025 ceremony with a heartfelt and energetic speech, celebrating 18 years of the IPL and thanking cricket fans from around the world for their unwavering support. His charisma was on full display as he introduced the evening's performers, setting an electrifying tone for the night.

With his opening line, Shah Rukh made a playful reference to the coincidence that Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) would win, getting the crowd excited. SRK's iconic line, "Party Pathan ke ghar pe rakhoge toh mehman nawazi ke liye Pathan khud aayega aur patake bhi layega," sent the crowd into a frenzy, hinting at the fireworks-both literal and figurative-that would follow during the night.

However, despite the festive atmosphere and excitement, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) hammered KKR by 7 wickets in the season opener.

Star-Studded Performances at IPL 2025 Opening Ceremony

The night featured dazzling performances from some of Bollywood's biggest stars. Singer Shreya Ghoshal captivated the audience with her soulful voice, while actress Disha Patani took center stage with an impeccable dance routine that had the fans cheering. Punjabi singer Karan Aujla followed suit with a high-octane performance, keeping the energy alive.

As the ceremony continued, Shah Rukh Khan invited Rinku Singh and Virat Kohli to the stage, where the two IPL stars joined SRK in an impromptu dance-off. The crowd, which was already excited, couldn't get enough of the stars' lighthearted performances, especially when Shah Rukh and Virat Kohli teamed up to groove to the hit song 'Jhoome Jo Pathaan.'

Virat Kohli is the sole player in IPL history to have featured in every season since the IPL beginning in 2008.

IPL 2025 Season Opener: RCB Beats KKR

While the opening ceremony was full of glitz and glamour, the real action took place on the field. Defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) faced off against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the highly anticipated IPL 2025 opener. Despite the excitement surrounding the opening match, KKR's performance left much to be desired.
KKR posted a modest total of 174 runs, which was quickly chased down by RCB in just 16.2 overs. The standout performances came from RCB's Krunal Pandya, who took 3 wickets for 29 runs, and Josh Hazlewood, who claimed 2 wickets for 22 runs. Their outstanding bowling set the tone for a dominant RCB victory.

With the bat, Phil Salt and Virat Kohli led RCB's charge, both smashing half-centuries to guide their team to an easy 7-wicket win. For KKR, captain Ajinkya Rahane's half-century was the only highlight in an otherwise disappointing performance. RCB's swift chase of KKR's total showed the gulf in class between the two sides on the day, with RCB securing the win comfortably.

What is Today's IPL Match Schedule and Venue?

The IPL 2025 season continues with another exciting match scheduled for Sunday, as last year's finalists, Sunrisers Hyderabad, take on Rajasthan Royals at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Fans are eagerly anticipating this encounter between two of the most competitive teams in the tournament, with both sides boasting a strong mix of experienced internationals and young talents.

The 2025 season promises to deliver 74 thrilling matches, with the playoffs set to take place in Hyderabad and Kolkata. The IPL has consistently been a platform for incredible performances, unforgettable moments, and intense rivalries, and this season looks set to be no different.

The IPL 2025 opener had it all, glamorous performances, a viral controversy, and a stunning victory for Royal Challengers Bangalore over Kolkata Knight Riders. While the handshake snub between Rinku Singh and Virat Kohli will be the talk of the town for days, the cricketing action also proved to be thrilling, with RCB demonstrating their dominance on the field. As the season progresses, fans can expect more drama, high-level cricket, and, no doubt, more viral moments from the world of IPL.