After Suryakumar Yadav delivered a match-winning knock and took over the Orange Cap leaderboard, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar posted a message on social media.
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It appeared to be a simple appreciation tweet. But the timing and the wording have led many to believe it carried an indirect reference to Virat Kohli.
He mentioned Surya had the most runs in the IPL and also highlighted his strike rate of 172. While that may sound normal, many fans felt it was a pointed remark aimed at Virat Kohli, who had the Orange Cap just before this match.
The orange cap is looking extra bright on this batter…most runs so far in the IPL, that too at a SR of 172!
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) May 2, 2025
Well done Surya! 👏👏👏#IPLonJioStar #MI
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Did Sanjay Manjrekar hint at criticism for Virat Kohli's strike rate?
Kohli has been consistent with the bat, but strike rate discussions have followed him throughout the season.
By mentioning that SKY had not only scored the most runs but also done so at a high strike rate, fans believe that Manjrekar may have indirectly questioned Kohli’s approach.
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Fans called it a subtle dig. They responded strongly and defended Kohli’s form and consistency. A few users even questioned Manjrekar’s own numbers from his playing days, pointing out his low strike rate in ODIs.
This isn’t the first time Sanjay Manjrekar has found himself at the centre of controversy over player comparisons. Over the years, he has made several remarks that have led to public reactions.
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