The bond between Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell is well-known among cricket fans, both on and off the field. As key players for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), their chemistry often translates into exciting performances. However, a surprising twist in their relationship emerged when Maxwell revealed that Kohli had once blocked him on Instagram. Let’s delve into this amusing story and its background.
A Test of Friendship: The 2017 Border Gavaskar Trophy
The incident dates back to 2017 during the Border Gavaskar Trophy, a pivotal Test series between Australia and India. The third Test took place in Ranchi, with the series level at 1-1. On the very first day of the match, Virat Kohli injured his shoulder while fielding. Amidst the tension, Glenn Maxwell, known for his playful spirit, decided to imitate Kohli’s injury by clutching his own shoulder. This light-hearted moment, however, didn’t sit well with Kohli, who was understandably frustrated.
The Instagram Block
Fast forward to 2021, when Maxwell joined RCB and attempted to connect with his new teammate on social media. To his surprise, he couldn’t find Kohli’s Instagram profile. “I thought he must be on social media somewhere,” Maxwell recounted during an episode of the LiSTNR Sport podcast. Confused by Kohli’s absence on his feed, he mentioned it to an RCB teammate, who humorously suggested that Kohli might have blocked him.
Maxwell was taken aback but decided to confront Kohli directly. The response was candid: “Yeah probably. It was when you mocked me during that Test match. I think I got the sh*** and decided to block you.” Maxwell admitted, “That’s fair enough,” and the two shared a laugh over the incident.
Rebuilding the Bond
What’s remarkable about this story is how it showcases the playful dynamics within the world of cricket. Kohli, known for his fierce competitive spirit, found a way to joke about the situation, ultimately leading to a strong friendship with Maxwell. After unblocking him, their camaraderie blossomed, culminating in stellar performances on the field.
A Match Made in RCB
Kohli was instrumental in bringing Maxwell to RCB, investing a staggering ₹14.25 crore in the all-rounder. This decision paid off as they formed one of the most destructive batting partnerships in the league. From 2021 to 2023, Maxwell scored consistently, racking up impressive runs that contributed to RCB’s competitiveness in the IPL.
Conclusion
The incident of Kohli blocking Maxwell on Instagram might seem trivial, but it encapsulates the humorous side of cricket and the importance of friendship in professional sports. Both players have not only overcome a moment of tension but have also forged a strong bond that has enhanced RCB’s performance in recent IPL seasons. As fans, we can appreciate how even the greatest athletes can have light-hearted moments that remind us they are human too.
This amusing anecdote serves as a reminder of the joys and camaraderie that cricket brings, both on and off the field.
