Virat Kohli Celebrates RCB's Historic IPL Victory
RCB's First IPL Title Celebration
After clinching their inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) title, Virat Kohli, a prominent player for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), praised the team's captain, Rajat Patidar, and expressed gratitude towards the franchise's dedicated supporters.
Kohli shared his thoughts during a celebration event held by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) at M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday.
Kohli's Heartfelt Message to Fans
During the ceremony, Kohli remarked, "It's no longer 'this year the cup will be ours,' but rather 'this year the cup is ours.' This victory is dedicated to you, our fans, and this wonderful city that has stood by us for 18 years through every challenge. I've never encountered a fanbase like this anywhere in the world."
Praise for Captain Rajat Patidar
Kohli further emphasized his confidence in Patidar, stating that during the RCB Unbox event, he had predicted Patidar would lead the team for many years and encouraged fans to support him.
"Let's give him the loudest cheer, as he has demonstrated his capabilities in his first season as captain," Kohli added.
#WATCH | Virat Kohli praises #RoyalChallengersBengaluru captain Rajat Patidar as RCB ended their 18-year-long wait and won their maiden IPL trophy yesterday after defeating Punjab Kings. "He will lead us for a long time," says Virat Kohli (Visuals from M Chinnaswamy Stadium in… pic.twitter.com/V1W8GrR5Qg
Patidar's Performance
Patidar contributed significantly with 312 runs across 14 matches, averaging 24.00, and showcased effective leadership throughout the season with strategic bowling rotations.
Kohli concluded the season as RCB's leading run-scorer and third overall, amassing 657 runs in 15 matches at an impressive average of 54.75 and a strike rate exceeding 144, including eight fifties.
Karnataka's Deputy CM Commends Kohli
Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivkumar, expressed his joy, stating, "Everyone, from the young to the elderly, is thrilled. After an 18-year wait, we have finally achieved success. I commend Kohli for his steadfastness and loyalty to Karnataka. I hope this marks the beginning of more victories for RCB."
#WATCH | Bengaluru: On Royal Challengers Bengaluru winning their maiden IPL title, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar says, "The whole of Karnataka is excited. From the young generation to the old generation, everyone is happy. After a long wait of 18 years, we have got success. I… pic.twitter.com/6IXBHnneEr
Governor's Congratulations
Earlier, Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot congratulated RCB on their IPL 2025 triumph, stating, "Royal Challengers Bengaluru has won the IPL 2025 trophy. On behalf of the Karnataka government and its citizens, I extend my congratulations. May they continue to excel and bring pride to Karnataka and the nation."
#WATCH | Bengaluru | On #RoyalChallengersBengaluru lifting the #IPL2025 title, Karnataka Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot says, "Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the IPL 2025 trophy. On behalf of the Karnataka government and the public, I congratulate them. May they continue to play… pic.twitter.com/sbSd7NC8H4
Match Summary
In the final match, Punjab Kings (PBKS) won the toss and opted to bowl first. Arshdeep Singh (3/40) and Kyle Jamieson (3/48) delivered crucial breakthroughs, while Yuzi Chahal (1/37) restricted the batting side. Kohli scored 43 runs off 35 balls, while Patidar (26 off 16), Jitesh Sharma (24 off 10), and Liam Livingstone (25 off 15) helped RCB set a target of 190/9 in 20 overs.
During the chase, PBKS started strong with Priyansh Arya (24 off 19) and Prabhsimran (26 off 22) forming a 43-run partnership. Josh Inglis (39 off 23) and Shashank Singh (61* off 30) fought hard, but Krunal Pandya (2/17), Yash Dayal (1/18), and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2/38) effectively limited PBKS to 184/7, despite Shashank's late surge in the final over.
RCB's victory signifies the end of a lengthy title drought, while PBKS continues its quest for its first championship.