RCB Celebrates Historic IPL Victory After 18 Years
RCB's First IPL Title Triumph
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) achieved their first IPL championship after a thrilling match against Punjab Kings, witnessed by an audience of 91,000. Virat Kohli, the unwavering core of the franchise, has been synonymous with RCB since the inception of the IPL and his playing career, never donning another team's jersey. Over the years, the immense pressure of leading the team to victory took its toll, ultimately prompting him to resign as captain, a decision he had previously discussed in interviews. Now, in what could be the final chapter of his illustrious career, Kohli has finally realized the dream that eluded him for so long, securing the title after an 18-year wait.
Kohli Shares the Spotlight
However, Kohli quickly shifted the focus away from himself, acknowledging the contributions of another RCB legend, AB de Villiers, who scored 4,522 runs in 157 matches for the team from 2011 to 2021. For Kohli, this victory symbolizes not only personal achievement but also a shared legacy.
A Tribute to the Fans
“Given This Team My Youth, My Prime, My Experience”
“This win is as much for the fans as it is for the team,” Kohli expressed to the broadcasters. “It’s been 18 long years. I’ve dedicated my youth, my prime, and my experience to this team. Each season, I stepped onto the field with hope and a relentless desire to win. To finally experience this moment… it’s beyond imagination.”
Overwhelmed with Emotion
“Never Thought This Day Would Come”
“I never imagined this day would arrive. I was flooded with emotion as the last ball was bowled. I had given everything — every ounce of energy and every drop of sweat — to this cause. And tonight, it all came full circle.”
Kohli on AB de Villiers' Impact
Virat Kohli On AB de Villiers
“AB's contributions to this franchise are extraordinary. I told him, ‘This victory is as much yours as it is ours. You must celebrate with us.’ Even four years post-retirement, he remains one of our most frequent Players of the Match. This speaks volumes about his influence — not just on the team or the league, but on me personally. He deserves to be here, lifting this trophy.”
A Journey of Loyalty
“Stayed And Struck Through The Tough Years”
“This victory ranks among the top moments of my career. I had opportunities to leave and join other teams, but I chose to stay. I endured the challenging times because I believed in this badge and this city. Bangalore is not merely a franchise for me — it’s home. My heart and soul reside here, and I always dreamed of winning with them. This makes it even more special.”
Team Effort Leads to Victory
A Complete Team Effort By RCB
“This management and this group have been exceptional. Many questioned our auction strategy and mocked our selections. But we knew what we were building — match-winners, risk-takers, individuals who believe. When the pressure mounted, this squad rose to the occasion.”
A Dream Fulfilled
“I Can Finally Sleep Like A Baby”
“As an athlete, you aspire for monumental moments. The IPL is one of the biggest tournaments. I desired this victory, not just for my legacy but for this group, for the fans who have supported us, and for the city that has cheered for us. Tonight, I can finally sleep peacefully.”
A Win for the City
The Win Belongs To Bangalore
“This victory isn’t solely mine or the team’s. It belongs to Bangalore. To every fan who waited 18 years, to every family member, every support staff, and everyone who stood by us. We are champions, and we achieved this together.”