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Sports Desk, June 4, 2025 : After 18 years of anticipation, hard work, and unwavering loyalty, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinched their maiden IPL title, defeating Punjab Kings by 6 runs in a thrilling final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on Tuesday night. At the heart of this historic triumph was Virat Kohli, whose emotional reaction encapsulated the significance of the moment.
As the final ball was bowled, Kohli fell to his knees, tears streaming down his face, a serene smile reflecting his fulfillment. Having spent his entire IPL career with RCB, the cricketing icon finally lifted the coveted trophy with the franchise he has remained devoted to. His loyalty and love for RCB were rewarded in a single, unforgettable night.
“This victory is for the fans and the team,” Kohli said in the post-match presentation. “Eighteen years is a long time. I’ve given my youth, my prime, my experience—everything to this team. Every season, we tried to win. This feeling is unreal. I never thought this day would come. I couldn’t hold back my emotions after the final ball. I’ve given my all, and it feels incredible.”
Kohli dedicated the triumph to former teammate AB de Villiers, stating, “This trophy is as much AB’s as it is the team’s. His contribution to this franchise is unmatched. Even after retirement, he holds the most Player of the Match awards for RCB. That shows his impact on this team and my career.”
Reflecting on his commitment to RCB, Kohli added, “I’ll stay with this team as long as I play IPL. There were moments I thought of stepping away, but I never changed my decision. I’ve stood by them, and they’ve supported me. I always wanted to win the title with this team. Winning it with another franchise wouldn’t have felt this special. My heart and soul are with Bengaluru.”
When asked where the IPL trophy ranks in his illustrious career, Kohli replied, “This is undoubtedly one of the biggest moments of my career. The IPL is one of the most prestigious tournaments in world cricket. I love winning big moments, and this trophy was the one thing missing. Tonight, I’ll sleep peacefully, like a child.”
Kohli also spoke about his approach to the game: “I know I won’t play for much longer. I want to ensure that on my last day, I can say I gave everything. Not just with the bat but in the field, standing for the full 20 overs, helping the team. I don’t want to be just an impact player; I want to make an impact throughout the game.”
How the Victory Unfolded
Batting first, RCB posted 190, with contributions from Rajat Patidar and Kohli. Punjab Kings fell short at 184, thanks to Krunal Pandya’s match-winning spell and tight bowling from Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Beyond the scorecard, the enduring image was Kohli breaking down in tears—a moment that marked the end of an 18-year journey and the beginning of a new chapter for RCB.
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