ISLAMABAD (PEN) : In a historic showdown at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on June 3, 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured their first-ever Indian Premier League (IPL) title, defeating Punjab Kings by a narrow six-run margin. This victory ended an 18-year wait for the franchise, who had previously finished as runners-up in 2009, 2011, and 2016.
Kohli’s Captaincy Leads RCB to Glory
RCB posted a total of 190/9 in their 20 overs, with captain Virat Kohli anchoring the innings with a composed 43 runs off 35 balls. Despite a modest total, RCB’s bowlers delivered a stellar performance, restricting Punjab Kings to 184/7. Krunal Pandya was named Player of the Match for his crucial role in the victory.
Emotional Victory for Kohli
The win was particularly poignant for Virat Kohli, who has been with the team since its inception. In a post-match interview, an emotional Kohli thanked his wife Anushka Sharma, his mother, and his brother for their unwavering support throughout his journey. His tears of joy resonated with fans worldwide, marking a defining moment for both Kohli and RCB.
Final Match Highlights
RCB Innings: Kohli’s 43 runs led the team to a total of 190/9. Key contributions came from Mayank Agarwal and Jitesh Sharma.
Punjab Kings Innings: Shashank Singh’s unbeaten 61 runs off 30 balls provided hope, but disciplined bowling from RCB sealed the win
Bowling Performances: Krunal Pandya took 2 wickets for 17 runs, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar claimed 2 for 38, helping RCB control the game in the final overs.
A Historic Season for RCB
The 2025 season was a milestone for RCB, marking their first IPL title after 18 seasons. Under the leadership of captain Rajat Patidar, the team finished second in the league stage and went on to win the title. RCB’s bowlers played a crucial role in defending the total, with key performances from Krunal Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
Looking Ahead
This victory not only ends RCB’s long wait for an IPL title but also sets a new benchmark for the franchise’s future endeavors. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, RCB looks poised for continued success in the coming seasons.
