Virat Kohli (BCCI/IPL Photo) NEW DELHI: The 18-year wait was finally over and when it was over, emotions overwhelmed all the Royal Challengers Bengaluru players, especially Virat Kohli, who has been with the franchise since the league’s inception in 2008. Tears of joy, kissing the trophy, holding the trophy high with pride and non-stop celebrations marked their scenes of historic I205 titles.Royal Challengers Bengaluru won their first ever IPL title in 18 years, defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
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Vijay Dahiya on Virat Kohli’s mindset and why experience still matters.RCB all-rounder Krunal Pandya reflected on winning the title, calling it one of the most emotional moments of his career and dedicating the triumph to the fans and former captain Kohli.Speaking to JioStar’s ‘The Krunal Pandya Experience’, the all-rounder said the much-awaited trophy meant the most to Kohli, who struggled to contain his emotions after the win.“Virat Kohli and the RCB fans deserved it the most. Virat has been an integral part of RCB since 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.“The love that people have for RCB is unbelievable. I said on the microphone that day that whatever happens, we have to win the trophy for the fans,” he added.Krunal said fulfilling that promise after 18 years of waiting made the victory even more meaningful.“I’m glad I said it and we were able to show it in the final. The fans deserved this trophy more than anyone else and of course Virat too,” he said.“Playing for the country is number one for me, but to win for RCB after 18 years and have my best season while contributing well, that has to be one of my best moments,” Krunal said.Krunal also spoke about his development as a cricketer over the years.“Over time, I have changed 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, I am still passionate and passionate about playing. I have always been a family man. I love my family, kids and my wife,” said the RCB-er, who played an integral role.Pandya, who was bought by RCB for Rs 5.75 crore at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction in Jeddah, has been retained by RCB for the 2026 IPL season.In IPL 2026, RCB are currently second in the points table with 10 points.
