Virat Kohli expressed that the victory was “as much for the fans” after clinching the IPL title on his 18th try. Bengaluru’s jubilant supporters are gearing up to celebrate their champions’ return.
In a thrilling IPL final held in Ahmedabad, Royal Challengers Bengaluru triumphed over Punjab Kings by a nail-biting six runs. The match captivated over 91,000 fans, who erupted in celebration as Kohli raised the trophy at the largest cricket stadium in the world.
At 36, Kohli continues to defy age, marking his legacy as the sole player to have donned the same jersey for all 18 seasons of the IPL since its inception in 2008. In a thrilling display, he led the charge with a top score of 43, guiding Bengaluru to a well-deserved victory.
Kohli, who helmed Bengaluru for 143 matches from 2011 to 2023, suffered heartbreak in three prior IPL finals, falling short of the ultimate prize.
Later on Wednesday, he will join his teammates for a celebration at the main stadium in Bengaluru, the vibrant southern city.
Authorities have announced that the much-anticipated open-top bus parade will not proceed in Bengaluru, a city known for its challenging traffic conditions.
“I started it right from the start — this championship is just as much for the supporters as it is for our team,” Kohli remarked.
“This unwavering support has been a constant for us over the past 18 years.”
“Through the ups and downs of our seasons, the team consistently showed up for every match in Bengaluru.”
What an incredible display of loyalty we’ve witnessed! That’s what kept me in the game.
Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar took the lead in honoring Kohli and the city of Bengaluru.
What a monumental achievement as they clinch their inaugural IPL title! “It’s poetic that the player donning jersey number 18 has lifted the trophy in the 18th edition,” Tendulkar shared on X.
Bengaluru head coach Andy Flower remarked, “Virat’s 18th year in the IPL truly adds a unique significance for everyone associated with the league.”
“It’s a thrilling moment as I express my happiness for him and immense pride in how he has propelled the team forward.”
Finally, the burden has been lifted!
Bengaluru, the tech capital, was alive with midnight celebrations as RCB triumphed, posting a score of 190-9 and successfully limiting Punjab to 184-7.
In a vibrant display of support, thousands of fans donned Kohli’s iconic number 18 jersey, celebrating with exuberant dance moves as fireworks illuminated the night sky.
“Winning this tournament is no walk in the park,” remarked Punjab head coach Ricky Ponting.
“One must reflect deeply on this, considering the number of strong teams they have showcased throughout the years.”
“The emotion was palpable as Kohli, his wife, and the entire RCB fanbase celebrated the long-awaited moment of triumph, finally shaking off the burden of not having an IPL title.”
In a recent statement on JioHotstar, former Australia batsman Matthew Hayden declared, “The IPL 2025 will be forever etched in the annals of cricket — not just for Virat Kohli, but for the RCB fans who stood by them through thick and thin.” This sentiment captures the unwavering loyalty of the supporters and the significance of the tournament in the cricketing landscape.
It highlights the power of unwavering dedication and confidence in achieving championship glory. For the last five years, they’ve consistently been in the mix, and now they’ve finally made their mark.
