Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) broke an 18-year jinx to win their first ever Indian Premier League (IPL) title, defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a nail biting final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. RCB ended with a memorable six run win to take their maiden IPL trophy.
As the contest approached its conclusion in the closing overs of the chase, emotions ran high. Virat Kohli, famous Indian batsman and RCB star, was seen crying on the field. Josh Hazlewood maintained his cool in the final over, with PBKS needing 29 runs. The emotional weight of nearly two decade of waiting was captured on camera when Kohli covered his face to attempt to hide his tears after delivering just two deliveries.
Virat Kohli, who has been with the team since its establishment in 2008, finally won the coveted IPL championship, this time under Rajat Patidar’s guidance.
Watch a video of Virat Kohli in tears here:
The tears say it all 🥹
An 1️⃣8️⃣-year wait comes to an end 👏
Updates ▶ https://t.co/U5zvVhcvdo#TATAIPL | #RCBvPBKS | #Final | #TheLastMile | @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/X15Xdmxb0k
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) June 3, 2025Virat Kohli praised the historic victory to the fans and reflected on his long career with RCB. “I have given everything to the franchise, from the youth to the prime,” the stalwart said. The 36-year-old also honored AB de Villiers, an RCB great and longtime teammate. He admitted that this victory is also for de Villiers, who gave his all for this team.
“This win is as much for the fans as it is for the team. I’ve given this team my youth, prime and experience. Tried to win it every season, gave it everything I can. Never thought this day would come, I was overcome with emotion after we won. What ABD has done for the franchise is tremendous, told him ‘this is as much yours as it is ours,” Kohli told on air via Star Sports.
He’s been the Player of the Match most times in the franchise, despite being retired for four years. He deserves to be on the podium, lifting the cup,” said Kohli after winning the trophy.
