In a heartwarming post-match moment that has captured the hearts of cricket fans, Punjab Kings (PBKS) youngster Suryansh Shedge shared a photo with his lifelong idol, Virat Kohli, following their clash with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). The game, played under rain-affected conditions at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday, April 18, was a memorable one not just for the on-field drama, but also for the emotional milestone it marked in the young cricketer’s life.
The match was shortened to a 14-over-a-side contest due to persistent showers, adding an extra layer of unpredictability. RCB, who were asked to bat first, suffered a dramatic collapse, losing nine wickets for just 63 runs. The innings was on the brink of disaster before Tim David’s explosive counterattack brought them some respectability. The Australian all-rounder played a sensational knock under pressure, scoring a blistering 50* off 26 deliveries. His innings featured five boundaries and three sixes, helping the home side post a total of 95/9.
In response, Punjab Kings chased down the target with ease, thanks to a mature and confident performance from Nehal Wadhera. The southpaw showcased poise and power in equal measure, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 33 off just 19 balls. Wadhera’s aggressive strokeplay, which included three fours and three towering sixes, ensured that PBKS reached the target in just 12.1 overs, winning the contest by five wickets and maintaining their momentum in the tournament.
While the match itself had its share of thrills and standout performances, it was the post-match scenes that tugged at the emotional strings. PBKS all-rounder Suryansh Shedge, who has quietly impressed with his energy and versatility in four matches this season, took to Instagram to share a special moment with the legendary Virat Kohli. The photo, capturing a beaming Suryansh Shedge beside a gracious Kohli, was accompanied by a heartfelt caption:
“Meeting your idol gives you a feeling that’s unexplainable! God has really blessed me! MY HERO @virat.kohli.”
The post quickly went viral, with fans and fellow cricketers flooding the comments section with love and admiration for both Suryansh Shedge’s sincerity and Kohli’s ever-inspiring presence. It’s not often that a young cricketer gets to compete against and interact with the very person who sparked their passion for the game, and Shedge’s emotional tribute reflected just how much the moment meant to him.
This victory held special meaning for Suryansh Shedge on a personal level, but it was equally important for Punjab Kings in the larger tournament picture. The win propelled PBKS to second place on the IPL 2025 points table, with 10 points from seven matches. Despite the setback, RCB remained in the playoff hunt, sitting at fourth place with eight points from their seven outings, keeping the race for the top four wide open.
As the teams gear up for the reverse fixture on Sunday, April 20, at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, all eyes will be on how RCB responds to the setback and whether PBKS can continue their march toward the top of the standings. For fans, however, it is moments like Suryansh Shedge’s encounter with Virat Kohli that remind them of the human side of cricket—the dreams, emotions, and inspiration that transcend statistics and scorecards.
In a tournament filled with fierce competition, it’s these stories that add soul to the spectacle.
