RCB Clinch First-Ever IPL Trophy with Thrilling Six-Run Win Over Punjab Kings
AHMEDABAD:Virat Kohli finally lifted the Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy after 18 seasons, dedicating the long-awaited victory to Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s loyal supporters.In front of a roaring crowd of over 91,000 at the world’s largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad, RCB edged out Punjab Kings by six runs in a dramatic final on Tuesday night. Kohli, ever the cornerstone of his team, top-scored with a vital 43 runs, leading Bengaluru to a total of 190-9. Punjab could only manage 184-7 in response.The 36-year-old batting legend, who has represented RCB since the league’s inception in 2008, described the victory as a tribute to the fans.> “This title is as much for the fans as it is for us,” Kohli said.”They’ve stood by us through every season — good or bad. That kind of loyalty is rare, and it’s why I’ve stayed.”Kohli captained RCB in 143 matches from 2011 to 2023 but had previously fallen short in three IPL finals. Tuesday’s win marked a breakthrough, not just for the franchise, but also for the man known as “King Kohli.”Celebrations are set to continue in Bengaluru, though plans for an open-top bus parade have been scrapped due to traffic concerns in the southern tech hub. Fans still took to the streets overnight, donning Kohli’s iconic No. 18 jersey, lighting fireworks, and dancing into the early hours.RCB head coach Andy Flower praised Kohli’s dedication and leadership:> “For Virat to finally win in his 18th year, it’s incredibly special. I’m proud of how he’s led and inspired this group.”Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar also paid tribute, writing on X (formerly Twitter):> “Congratulations on their first-ever IPL title. Fitting that jersey No. 18 lifts the trophy in the 18th edition.”Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting acknowledged the magnitude of the moment:> “This isn’t an easy tournament to win. You could see what it meant to Virat, his wife, and all the RCB fans. They’ve finally shed that weight of expectation.”Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden added during JioHotstar’s broadcast:> “IPL 2025 will be remembered forever — not just for Kohli, but for the RCB faithful. Their belief and consistency finally paid off.”Kohli, already a two-time World Cup winner and one of the most accomplished players in cricket history, had one gap in his resume: the IPL title. That void was filled on Tuesday, and the moment wasn’t lost on him.He laughed, he cried, and finally held the shimmering gold trophy aloft — a symbol of nearly two decades of unwavering commitment to one franchise. This season, Kohli once again led from the front, scoring 657 runs in 15 matches, including eight half-centuries.Reflecting on his journey, an emotional Kohli said:> “I gave my youth and my prime to this team. And now, this moment makes it all worthwhile.”
