NEW DELHI: After an 18-year wait, Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally broke through, and the celebrations that followed were immediate and overwhelming. The entire RCB camp was flooded with emotion, none more than Virat Kohli, who has represented the franchise since the league’s launch in 2008. Scenes of tears of joy, trophy-kissing moments, and players hoisting the silverware with immense pride captured the magnitude of the title win as RCB lifted the IPL 2025 crown.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru claimed their maiden IPL title after 18 years, beating Punjab Kings by six runs in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
RCB all-rounder Krunal Pandya spoke about the significance of the triumph, describing it as among the most emotional experiences of his career. He also dedicated the achievement to the fans and to the franchise’s former captain, Kohli.
On JioStar’s “The Krunal Pandya Experience”, Pandya said the long-awaited trophy meant the most to Kohli, who struggled to steady his emotions after the win. “The ones who deserved it the most are Virat Kohli and the RCB fans. Virat has been an integral part of RCB from the first season. So, to win it and see him get emotional was special. Watching him cry was an emotional moment for everyone,” Krunal said.
He added that the affection surrounding the franchise had always been special. “The love people have for RCB is incredible. That day, I said on the mic that whatever happens, we must win the trophy for the fans,” he recalled.
For Pandya, turning that promise into reality after nearly two decades of waiting made the success even more powerful. “I am glad I said it and that we were able to deliver in the final. The fans deserved this trophy more than anybody else, and obviously, Virat as well,” he said.
While representing the country remains his top priority, Krunal highlighted that delivering for RCB after 18 years—along with a strong personal run during the season—ranked among his most memorable moments. “Playing for the country is number one for me, but winning for RCB after 18 years and having my best season while contributing well has to be one of my top moments,” he added.
Krunal also reflected on how he has evolved as a cricketer over time. “I have changed over a period of time, for the better. As you go through the journey, you learn. A lot of credit goes to my parents and the upbringing they gave me. But as a human being, who I am, has remained the same. I love cricket, still as excited and passionate to play. I have always been a family man. I love my family, kids, and my wife, who has played an integral part,” the RCB all-rounder said.
In the IPL 2025 Mega Auction held in Jeddah, RCB bought Pandya for Rs 5.75 crore, and he was subsequently retained by the franchise for the 2026 season.
Looking ahead to IPL 2026, RCB are currently placed second in the points table with 10 points.
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