And the wait is finally over. On 3 June 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) etched their name in history by winning their maiden title after 18 years at the IPL 2025. The six-run victory over Punjab Kings not only ended one of cricket’s most famous title droughts but also delivered a highly emotional victory for cricket star Virat Kohli, the face of the team for over a decade.
A Nail-Biting IPL 2025 Final For RCB
The IPL 2025 final was a nail-biting affair with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru batting first and setting a competitive score of 190 runs in 20 overs. Captain Rajat Patidar led the front, however, it was Virat Kohli’s amazing innings of 43 runs off 35 balls that actually provided the stability that the team needed. The middle order also gave in equal contributions, while Punjab’s Arshdeep Singh’s late burst of wickets prevented the team from crossing the 200 mark.
Punjab Kings, also in the pursuit of their first title, started with openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, who scored 43 runs in five overs. However, RCB’s bowlers, especially Krunal Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, turned the tables with their consistent spell and crucial wickets. After a strong performance by Shashank Singh, who scored 61 runs off 30 balls, Punjab finished 184/7, falling short by just six runs.
Virat Kohli’s Emotional High
As the final ball was bowled and victory was sealed, Virat Kohli was visibly emotional. Tears streamed down his face as the importance of the title kicked in. RCB had finally won an IPL trophy after a long wait of 18 years and three close calls at the finals. The official IPL account captured the sentiment of millions of fans worldwide and wrote, “The tears say it all. An 18-year wait comes to an end.”
The victory is more than just a trophy. It marks a new era for RCB. For Kohli, this achievement completes his cricket journey, as he now owns a trophy in every major tournament and format. Fireworks lit up the Ahmedabad sky at the IPL 2025 as “Ee Sala Cup Namde” echoed in the stands, marking a significant moment in IPL history.
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