Table of Contents
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ended their 18-year quest for an Indian Premier League (IPL) title with a dramatic and emotional victory in the 2025 final, a moment that has been hailed as a testament to loyalty, perseverance, and passion. Led by their iconic captain Virat Kohli, RCB clinched their maiden IPL championship by defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday night.
The final was a nail-biting affair, with RCB posting a competitive total of 190 for 9 in their 20 overs. Kohli was the star with the bat, top-scoring for his team with a crucial 43 runs off 35 balls, setting the tone for the innings alongside England’s Phil Salt. Despite a late surge from Punjab Kings, who finished at 184 for 7, RCB’s bowlers held their nerve to secure the historic win.
For Kohli, the victory was more than just a trophy; it was the culmination of 18 years of dedication and heartbreak. Since joining RCB as a 19-year-old in 2008, Kohli has been the face of the franchise, enduring multiple near-misses including losses in the 2009, 2011, and 2016 finals. After the final ball, an emotional Kohli was seen carrying the trophy towards the sea of red-clad fans, a moment that symbolized his unshakeable loyalty and relentless pursuit of glory for the team. “This wasn’t luck. This was loyalty paying rent after 18 years,” the franchise captioned the viral video of Kohli celebrating with the IPL trophy.
This wasn’t luck. This was loyalty paying rent after 18 years. 🤌
— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) June 3, 2025
Virat Kohli’s heartfelt reaction post RCB’s maiden IPL title triumph
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Kohli reflected on the journey, dedicating the title not only to the current squad and fans but also to former RCB legends AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle. Both de Villiers and Gayle were present at the final, witnessing the fulfilment of a dream they had chased alongside Kohli.
The IPL 2025 victory was a defining moment for Kohli personally and for the franchise collectively. “I’ve given this team my youth, my prime, and my experience. I’ve tried to win this every season, giving it everything I have. To finally have this moment come… it’s an unbelievable feeling,” Kohli said, visibly emotional after the match. The win not only ended years of heartbreak but also cemented Kohli’s legacy as one of the most loyal and passionate figures in IPL history.
Also Check: In Pics – RCB players celebrate with family members after historic IPL 2025 title win
“Virat… sweaty, emotional, holding that big, hard trophy for RCB”: Kendra Lust
RCB’s maiden IPL title is a story of resilience, loyalty and the power of dreams realized against all odds. The team’s bold performance and Kohli’s leadership have etched this victory into the annals of cricket history, inspiring fans and players alike. As actress Kendra Lust captured the sentiment on social media, “Virat… sweaty, emotional, holding that big, hard trophy for RCB — I’ve never wanted to be a cup so bad. Congrats to the King and the boldest boys in red!”
https://twitter.com/KendraLust/status/1929996636513808633
The night in Ahmedabad will be remembered as the day RCB’s long wait finally ended, and a legend’s loyalty was richly rewarded.
