In a landmark moment for Indian cricket, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended their 18-year title drought by winning the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 trophy. They clinched victory in a thrilling final against Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium, winning by six runs and etching their name into the league’s history.
Batting first, RCB posted a competitive total of 190 runs. Virat Kohli led the charge with a composed 43 off 35 balls, supported by Rajat Patidar’s quickfire innings in the middle order. Despite some disciplined bowling from Punjab, RCB’s batting lineup held firm to give their bowlers a defendable total.
Punjab Kings, in reply, fought valiantly. They looked in control for stretches of the game, but RCB’s bowlers showed nerves of steel under pressure. Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar delivered key breakthroughs, backed by sharp fielding and tactical precision. In the final over, with Punjab needing 11 runs, RCB held their ground and sealed the win, triggering scenes of jubilation across the stadium.
The victory was particularly emotional for Virat Kohli, who has been the face of the franchise since its early years. As the final wicket fell, Kohli dropped to his knees, overcome with emotion. After years of heartbreak, criticism, and near-misses, the RCB veteran finally lifted the IPL trophy — a moment fans had waited nearly two decades to witness.
Adding to the celebration, Kohli also reached a personal milestone during the match by becoming the player with the most fours in IPL history — yet another testament to his legacy in the tournament.
This historic win marks a new era for Royal Challengers Bengaluru — not just as contenders, but as champions. The long wait is over, and the red and gold army can finally celebrate a triumph that will be remembered for generations.
