As the cricketing world prepared for the IPL 2025 season, a curious anecdote surfaced about two of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) key players, Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell. The story began not in the IPL, but during a Test series between India and Australia, where a moment of playful mimicry led to an unexpected social media block.
When Maxwell was set to join RCB for the 2021 IPL season, he tried to follow Virat Kohli on Instagram, only to find himself blocked. Maxwell humorously recounted, “I was like, ‘I can’t find him,'” upon realizing the block. The reason behind this block traced back to a light-hearted yet competitive moment during the Test series. Kohli, after injuring his shoulder while fielding, missed the final Test. During Australia’s turn to field, Maxwell, in a playful jest, mimicked Kohli’s shoulder clutch. Reflecting on this, Maxwell later shared, “When I asked him if he had blocked me, he said, ‘Yeah, probably. It was when you mocked me during that Test match.’”
This incident, though seemingly trivial, highlighted the competitive spirit and the banter that often characterizes cricket. Maxwell, understanding Kohli’s reaction, noted, “I understood why he did it. It was all in good fun, but I guess I touched a nerve.” Fast forward to their time together at RCB, and the narrative has shifted from rivalry to camaraderie. Maxwell expressed his appreciation for Kohli’s support, especially after his challenging stint with Punjab Kings. “When I knew that I was going to RCB, Virat was the first guy to message me and welcome me to the team,” Maxwell recalled, indicating the beginning of a newfound respect and friendship.
Their relationship has since blossomed, marked by mutual respect and shared experiences, including the challenges of parenthood. “From the days we were both young and brash, we’ve matured and become great friends,” Maxwell reflected. This transformation from frosty exchanges to a strong bond is a testament to how sports can forge unlikely friendships.
Now, as they gear up for IPL 2025, Kohli and Maxwell stand not just as teammates but as friends who have navigated the highs and lows of international cricket together. Their journey from a playful block to becoming integral parts of RCB’s squad is a narrative of growth, understanding, and the spirit of cricket that transcends the boundaries of the field.
This story of Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell is not just about a block on Instagram but about how moments of rivalry can lead to lasting bonds, enriching the tapestry of cricket with tales of sportsmanship and friendship.
