After 18 years of unwavering support and countless near-misses, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have finally etched their name into the annals of Indian Premier League (IPL) history by clinching their maiden title in 2025. In a thrilling finale at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, RCB triumphed over the Punjab Kings (PBKS) by a narrow margin of six runs, bringing immense joy to their loyal fanbase and fulfilling the long-standing promise of “Ee Sala Cup Namdu” (This year, the cup is ours).
The Road to Glory
Under the astute leadership of Rajat Patidar and the strategic guidance of coach Andy Flower, RCB showcased consistent performances throughout the season. Finishing second in the league stage, they secured a spot in Qualifier 1, where they once again faced PBKS and emerged victorious, setting the stage for a rematch in the final.
The Final Showdown
Opting to bat first, RCB posted a competitive total of 190/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a steady 43 runs off 35 balls, while contributions from other batsmen ensured a challenging target for PBKS. In response, PBKS managed 184/7, falling short by six runs. Krunal Pandya’s economical spell of 2/25 and the disciplined pace attack from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, and Yash Dayal played pivotal roles in restricting the opposition.
Emotional Highs and Celebrations
The victory was not just a team achievement but also a personal milestone for Virat Kohli, who had been part of RCB since the inception of the IPL. Overwhelmed with emotion, Kohli was seen in tears, embracing his wife Anushka Sharma in a heartfelt moment that resonated with fans worldwide.
Adding to the celebrations, former RCB legends AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle joined the festivities, sharing in the joy of the franchise’s long-awaited success.
A Legacy Cemented
This triumph not only ends RCB’s title drought but also cements their place among the elite teams of the IPL. The 2025 season will be remembered for its thrilling matches, standout performances, and the culmination of years of perseverance by a team and its fans.
Looking Ahead
With a blend of experienced stalwarts and emerging talents, RCB’s future looks promising. The 2025 victory serves as a testament to their resilience and determination, setting the stage for continued success in the seasons to come.