After 18 long years, the wait is finally over. Royal Challengers Bengaluru have done it. They are the champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Yes, finally, a title that had eluded them despite all the passion, star power, and heartbreaks over the years.
In a thrilling IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, RCB held their nerves to beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs and clinch their maiden IPL title.
RCB’s journey in the IPL has been filled with moments of brilliance and unbearable heartbreak. They had reached the final three times before—in 2009, 2011, and 2016, only to lose to Deccan Chargers, Chennai Super Kings, and Sunrisers Hyderabad, respectively. But this time, in their fourth final, they finally got it right.
When the final ball was bowled and victory was sealed, the camera captured a moment that will be etched in the memories of cricket fans forever. Virat Kohli, the face of RCB for nearly two decades, broke down in tears. Surrounded by teammates, the emotions spilled over. It was raw, it was real.
The camera stayed on two legends — Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers. While ABD retired without an IPL trophy, Kohli, in his 18th year with the number 18 on his back, finally held the coveted silverware. Maybe it was always meant to be this way. Maybe it was destiny.
A Touch of Class from CSK
In a beautiful moment of sportsmanship, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) — RCB’s long-time rivals — posted a heartfelt congratulatory tweet soon after the final:
“Congratulations, @RCBTweets! 🥳 #IPL2025Final #WhistlePodu 🦁💛”
This simple yet classy gesture from CSK’s admin struck a chord with fans from both camps. Rivalries aside, it was a celebration of cricket, of perseverance, and of the magic that only the IPL can deliver.
“Ee Sala Cup Namde” — No Longer Just a Chant
For years, RCB fans chanted “Ee Sala Cup Namde” (This year, the cup will be ours), and for years, it ended in disappointment. But not this time. It’s real. It has happened.
Say it loud, RCB fans:
RCB ARE IPL CHAMPIONS! 🏆
And somewhere in the stands or on a couch at home, AB de Villiers is probably smiling too.