As the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises navigate the early stages of the 2025 season, an intriguing narrative is unfolding. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) currently dominate the points table, having won both of their opening matches, while Delhi Capitals also enjoy an unbeaten record.
However, a video featuring former Indian opener Virender Sehwag mocking RCB has gone viral, igniting social media chatter.
Sehwag's remarks follow RCB's impressive start, which sees them sitting at the top of the IPL standings. In a light-hearted jab at the Bengaluru team, Sehwag referred to them as 'gareeb' or 'poor.' His comments implied that teams like RCB should savor their moment at the top of the table, given their elusive quest for an IPL championship.
"Let the poor be on top of the IPL points, let them click photos. Who knows for how long they will be at the top," Sehwag quipped during a chat on Cricbuzz.
Known for his explosive style during his playing days, Sehwag never clinched an IPL title himself while representing Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings. He clarified that his 'gareeb' comment was aimed at franchises that have yet to win an IPL title, not their financial status. He emphasized that all franchises are financially robust, earning between 400-500 crore each season.
"Do you think I was talking about money? No. They are all wealthy in terms of money. The ones who haven't won a single trophy, I'm calling them 'gareeb,'" Sehwag explained.
Besides RCB, other IPL teams yet to claim the coveted title include Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Lucknow Super Giants, though the latter joined the league only in 2022.