• Kuldeep Yadav's playful slaps on Rinku Singh left fans amused and social media.

  • KKR kept their playoff hopes alive with a thrilling 14-run win over DC in IPL 2025.

Fans react to Kuldeep Yadav’s mischievous slapstick banter with Rinku Singh in IPL 2025
Fans react to Kuldeep Yadav's mischievous slapstick banter with Rinku Singh post Thrilling DC vs KKR match in IPL 2025 (Image source: X)

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In a surprising yet light-hearted post-match moment, Delhi Capitals spinner Kuldeep Yadav became the center of attention after playfully slapping Kolkata Knight Riders batter Rinku Singh — not once, but twice — following a thrilling IPL 2025 clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 29. The bizarre exchange came after KKR’s vital 14-run win over DC in a must-win encounter that kept their playoff hopes alive. While Rinku looked visibly puzzled, the duo — long-time friends and India teammates — laughed it off moments later, making it clear the interaction was all in good fun. But the internet wasn’t ready to let it slide without turning the clip into a viral sensation.

Fans response to Kuldeep Yadav’s playful gesture to Rinku Singh

It was a blink-and-you-miss-it moment that lit up social media. As players from both sides shook hands after a tense, high-octane encounter, Kuldeep approached Rinku and landed two mock slaps on his face. Rinku, slightly taken aback, wore a look of confusion before bursting into laughter — a response that only added fuel to the meme fire.

The duo’s camaraderie is well-known, both having been part of various Team India camps and sharing dressing rooms over the years. Still, fans were left guessing what prompted the playful aggression. Some joked that Kuldeep was “waking up the real Rinku” after his long slump in form, while others speculated it was a cheeky response to Rinku’s missed chance at sealing the game earlier. Regardless of the intent, it gave fans a rare, candid glimpse of friendship in a high-stakes tournament, where pressure often overshadows personality.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: IPL 2025: Fans react as Sunil Narine’s all-round heroics helps KKR edge past Delhi Capitals in a high scoring encounter

Rinku’s redemption gets KKR on track to a playoff push

Rinku, who has been struggling for consistency this season, finally showed signs of form, scoring a valuable 36 off 25 balls before falling to DC’s rising leg-spinner Vipraj Nigam. Though his knock didn’t anchor the innings, it came at a crucial stage, providing KKR with the late push to post a strong 204-run total.

The match turned dramatically in KKR’s favour during Sunil Narine’s masterclass in the 14th over, where he dismissed Axar Patel and Tristan Stubbs in quick succession. That spell turned the tide, choking Delhi’s chase just when they looked poised to strike.

With this win, KKR climbed to 9 points from 10 games, keeping their playoff dreams alive. Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals still sit in a strong position with 12 points but face stiff competition from Lucknow Super Giants and Punjab Kings in the race to the top four.

Also READ: ‘Clueless and spineless’: Fans lose patience as Venkatesh Iyer delivers another low score in IPL 2025 during DC vs KKR clash

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.