Virat Kohli Leads Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Historic First IPL Title
After 18 seasons of unwavering commitment, Virat Kohli finally lifted the Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy, guiding Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a long-awaited victory. The emotional win came in front of more than 91,000 spectators at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, the largest cricket venue in the world.
RCB edged out Punjab Kings by six runs in a thrilling final on Tuesday night, capping off a dramatic IPL season. Kohli, 36, played a pivotal role in the match, contributing a vital 43 runs to help set up Bengaluru’s total of 190-9. Punjab managed 184-7 in response.
Kohli, the only player to have represented a single franchise since the tournament’s inception in 2008, described the title as “as much for the fans as it is for us.” He added, “The supporters have stood by us through every high and low. Their loyalty is unmatched, and it’s one of the biggest reasons I stayed with this team.”
The RCB skipper between 2011 and 2023, Kohli had previously fallen short in three IPL finals. This season’s win finally breaks the team’s title drought and ends years of heartbreak for fans.
Celebrations are planned in Bengaluru, although a proposed open-top bus parade has been cancelled due to concerns over traffic congestion in the city. A victory gathering is still expected at the main stadium later on Wednesday.
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar congratulated the team, writing on X (formerly Twitter): “What a poetic moment — jersey No. 18 lifts the trophy in the 18th season. Congratulations to RCB on their maiden IPL title.”
RCB head coach Andy Flower praised Kohli’s enduring influence: “It’s incredible that Virat, in his 18th IPL year, leads the team to this milestone. He’s been the heartbeat of this side.”
The final sparked widespread celebrations in Bengaluru, where fans poured into the streets at midnight, chanting and lighting fireworks. Many wore Kohli’s iconic No. 18 jersey to mark the occasion.
On the losing side, Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting acknowledged the magnitude of the achievement: “This tournament is tough to win. RCB have come close many times, and you could see what it meant to Virat, his family, and their fans.”
Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden reflected on the broader significance: “IPL 2025 will be remembered not just for Kohli’s triumph, but for the unwavering support RCB has enjoyed over the years. This win is a testament to belief and persistence.”
RCB’s maiden title adds a new chapter to the IPL’s rich history, and for Kohli and his team, it marks the culmination of nearly two decades of resilience and dedication.
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