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"Ye Paani Pilaata Hai" Virat Kohli Accused Of Insulting Musheer Khan In RCB Vs PBKS Qualifier

Debashis Sarangi

Kohli's remarks for Musheer created huge controversy [Source: Screengrab, @SrutiSwastika/X]Kohli's remarks for Musheer created huge controversy [Source: Screengrab, @SrutiSwastika/X]

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) had a memorable outing in qualifier 1 against Punjab Kings (PBKS), securing a thumping win and entering the final of the IPL 2025. However, legendary RCB batter Virat Kohli found himself at the centre of a controversy, with fans accusing him of insulting Musheer Khan during the game. 

Virat Kohli's Water Boy Gesture For Musheer Khan Creates Controversy

The incident happened during the ninth over of the Punjab Kings' innings when Musheer Khan had just entered the middle following Shashank Singh's dismissal. Musheer is Indian cricketer Sarfaraz Khan's younger brother and he came in as an impact substitute, with PBKS reeling at 60 for six in 8.2 overs. 

However, as soon as the batter prepared to take his stance, Virat Kohli, fielding at slips, allegedly tried to keep him under the pump by exchanging a few words. 

Kohli, known for his intense and passionate style of play, is an energetic character and loves to remain involved in the game. Although what Kohli said to his teammates couldn't be heard, it seemed from his gesture that he chirped "Yeh paani pilaata hai (he is Punjab's water boy)", referring to Musheer's entry as a substitute during the drinks break. 

Although Kohli said it in a casual manner, fans didn't take it lightly, accusing him of insulting the young batter. Here's how some fans slammed the talismanic cricketer on X (formerly Twitter). 

"Paani pilata hai yeh (he serves water to others). See how shamelessly he's laughing after saying that."


"Virat Kohli didn’t just say it once, he said it twice: 'ye to paani pilata hai'. What an absolutely disgusting attitude. He has zero respect for anyone, whether it’s a senior,a junior and not even for the people who share the field with him."


"Saying "ye paani pilata hai" to an Indian debutant , who probably idolises you. I am judging moral values of people who likes this guy . You can do better."


Why Did Virat Kohli Make The Remark?

It's worth mentioning that Musheer was initially not a part of the PBKS playing XI and entered the field with drinks earlier in the game. However, with the Kings losing their sixth wicket, he had to come in as an impact substitute. The fact that he came out to bat only moments after serving drinks amused Kohli, who, in turn, made the alleged remark and received a lot of flak.