Posted on June 4, 2025
On June 3, 2025, history was made at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinched their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title, defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in a thrilling final. This victory not only marked a significant achievement for the franchise but also ended an 18-year-long wait for Virat Kohli and the passionate fans of Bengaluru.
A Historic Victory
Batting first, RCB posted a challenging total of 190/9 in their 20 overs. Captain Virat Kohli led from the front with a composed 43 runs off 35 balls, anchoring the innings amidst early setbacks. The middle order contributed crucial runs, with Krunal Pandya’s quickfire 28 and Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s late cameo adding vital runs. In reply, Punjab Kings managed 184/7, falling short by six runs despite a valiant 61* from Shashank Singh. RCB’s bowlers, especially Krunal Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, held their nerve in the final overs to seal the victory.
Kohli’s Emotional Triumph
For Virat Kohli, this win was the culmination of nearly two decades of dedication and perseverance. Having been with RCB since its inception in 2008, Kohli’s journey with the team had been filled with near-misses and heartbreaks. After the final ball was bowled, Kohli was visibly emotional, reflecting on the years of hard work and commitment. He remarked, “This win is as much for the fans as it is for the team. It’s been 18 long years. I’ve given this team my youth, my prime, my experience. Every single season, I’ve walked out with a heart full of hope and a mind obsessed with victory. To finally have this moment… it’s beyond belief.”
A Shared Celebration
In a heartwarming gesture, Kohli invited former RCB stalwarts Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers to join him on the podium to lift the trophy together. Both players had been instrumental in RCB’s journey over the years, and their inclusion in the celebration underscored the team’s unity and shared history. Kohli expressed, “They deserve it as much as I do.”
Nationwide Euphoria
The victory sparked celebrations across the country, with Bengaluru erupting in joy. Fans took to the streets, chanting “Ee Sala Cup Namdu” (This year, the cup is ours), a slogan that had become synonymous with RCB’s pursuit of the title. A special victory parade was organized in Bengaluru on June 4, allowing fans to celebrate the historic win with their heroes.
A Dream Realized
This IPL title is not just a trophy for RCB but a testament to the resilience and determination of Virat Kohli and the entire team. It signifies the end of an era of near-misses and the beginning of a new chapter in RCB’s illustrious history. For Kohli, this victory is the realization of a long-cherished dream, one that he shared with millions of fans who stood by the team through thick and thin.
As RCB bask in the glory of their first IPL title, the journey of Virat Kohli and the team serves as an inspiring story of perseverance, passion, and the unwavering belief that dreams do come true.