Virat Kohli Lifts IPL Trophy: After 18 long years of heartbreak, near misses, and unwavering fan loyalty, the moment finally arrived. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), under the passionate presence of Virat Kohli, clinched their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title by defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 6 runs in a high-octane final at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
The cricketing world witnessed history as Virat Kohli, the face of RCB’s legacy, lifted the IPL trophy — a moment that millions of RCB fans had been dreaming about since the league’s inception in 2008. The chants of “Ee Sala Cup Namde” — this time the cup is ours — finally became reality.
RCB Set Target with Grit: 190/9 in 20 Overs
RCB, asked to bat first after PBKS won the toss and chose to bowl, posted a fighting total of 190/9. The innings was built around Virat Kohli’s composed 43 off 35 balls, peppered with 2 sixes and 4 boundaries. While Kohli anchored the innings in the early overs, cameos from Rajat Patidar (26 off 16) and Romario Shepherd’s late blitz ensured a competitive score.
PBKS bowlers kept the pressure on throughout, with Arshdeep Singh returning impressive figures of 3/40 and Kyle Jamieson also claiming 3 wickets for 48 runs.
PBKS Fall Short Despite Shashank Singh’s Heroics
In response, PBKS fought valiantly but could only manage 184/7 in their 20 overs. The chase wobbled early with key wickets, but Shashank Singh’s unbeaten 61 off 30 balls brought life back into the game. His fearless hitting in the death overs sent a wave of tension across RCB fans, but tight overs from Krunal Pandya (2/17) and Yash Dayal (1/18) proved crucial.
Josh Inglis (39 off 23) and Prabhsimran Singh (26 off 22) also contributed, but the team fell just short, handing RCB the narrowest of victories.
Tears, Cheers, and a Trophy: Kohli’s Moment of Glory
As the final ball was bowled and victory confirmed, the RCB camp erupted. But no one had a bigger smile — and tears — than Virat Kohli. A veteran of the IPL and loyal to RCB since the beginning, Kohli has often been seen as the heartbeat of the franchise. His unwavering loyalty was finally rewarded.
Kohli’s journey with RCB includes three previous final losses (2009, 2011, 2016), but this victory erased all past pain. The visuals of every RCB player running toward Kohli with hugs and emotions will remain etched in IPL history.
“This is not just a trophy. It’s 18 years of emotion, hard work, belief, and fans’ loyalty,” said an emotional Kohli after the match. “RCB forever!”
Key Performances – IPL 2025 Final
Royal Challengers Bengaluru:
- Virat Kohli – 43 (35)
- Rajat Patidar – 26 (16)
- Romario Shepherd – 20* (10)
- Arshdeep Singh (PBKS) – 3/40
- Kyle Jamieson (PBKS) – 3/48
Punjab Kings:
- Shashank Singh – 61* (30)
- Josh Inglis – 39 (23)
- Krunal Pandya (RCB) – 2/17
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar (RCB) – 2/38
A Win for the Fans
RCB’s massive fanbase, known for its passionate support despite years of disappointment, finally has its reward. The city of Bengaluru exploded in celebration, with fans flooding the streets and lighting fireworks, chanting “RCB! RCB! RCB!”
Social media, too, was ablaze. From celebrities to former cricketers, tributes poured in:
- “Finally! The cup belongs to RCB. Virat Kohli, you deserve this more than anyone!” — IndianExpress
- “18 years. 3 lost finals. 1 unbreakable spirit. Kohli and RCB, champions at last.” — CricCrazyJohns
Legacy Cemented
This win not only gives RCB their first IPL trophy but also cements Virat Kohli’s legacy as one of the greatest contributors to the league. His name will now forever be associated with the long-awaited triumph that completed a fairytale.
With the 2025 IPL season now concluded, the headlines belong to one name — Virat Kohli — and one franchise — Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the IPL 2025 champions.
It took 18 years, countless prayers, and unwavering belief, but RCB are finally champions. This isn’t just a cricketing victory; it’s a lesson in persistence, loyalty, and the power of dreams.
Ee Sala Cup Namde — Forever!
