IPL 2025: Virat Kohli and Liam Livingstone moment leaves RCB fans smiling during 3rd ODI in Ahmedabad

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) fans had an unexpected yet heartwarming moment to cherish during the third ODI between India and England in Ahmedabad, as IPL teammates Virat Kohli and Liam Livingstone shared a lighthearted exchange on the field.

The incident, which unfolded after a dramatic DRS call, showcased the camaraderie between the two ahead of IPL 2025. Virat Kohli, who had a rare failure in the second ODI in Cuttack, was back in prime form, playing some exquisite strokes to steady India's innings after Rohit Sharma's early dismissal.

Partnering with Shubman Gill, the veteran batter looked composed, dictating terms against the English attack. England captain Jos Buttler attempted to break Kohli's rhythm by bringing in Joe Root, but the Indian maestro dispatched him with ease. The real challenge, however, came when leg-spinner Adil Rashid was introduced into the attack.

Rashid, known for troubling Kohli in the past, nearly struck gold when he trapped the batter on the front pad. England immediately reviewed the on-field decision, hoping for a breakthrough. The replays, however, revealed that the ball had pitched just outside the leg stump, leading to Kohli's survival by the narrowest of margins. While England's players showed disbelief, none were more animated than Phil Salt, who stood in shock at the call.

Amidst the tense atmosphere, Livingstone, a new RCB signing for IPL 2025, chose humour over frustration. The English all-rounder shared a laugh with Kohli, resulting in a wholesome moment that instantly went viral. RCB fans were quick to highlight the growing camaraderie between the two, expressing excitement about their potential partnership in the upcoming IPL season.

The day was even more special for Kohli as he became only the second Indian and fourth Asian batter to surpass 16,000 ODI runs in Asia, achieving the feat in just 340 innings. His innings was a masterclass in stroke play, culminating in a well-earned half-century before Rashid eventually got the better of him. At the time of writing this report, India were 322/6 in 45.2 overs. Virat Kohli departed after scoring 52 while Shubman Gill scored a fluent 112.

As IPL 2025 draws closer, RCB fans will be eager to see the chemistry between Kohli and Livingstone translate into match-winning performances. If their Ahmedabad moment is anything to go by, the upcoming season promises to be an exciting one for Bangalore supporters.