The year 2025 will forever be etched in the hearts of Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans. After 18 long years of heartbreak and near misses, RCB finally lifted their maiden IPL trophy by defeating Punjab Kings by 6 runs in a nerve-wracking final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium.
The match wasn’t just a game, it was an emotion. As the final ball was bowled and the scoreboard confirmed RCB’s win, tears rolled down Virat Kohli’s eyes, marking the end of a legendary wait.
A Tough Target and a Tense Chase
Batting first after losing the toss, RCB posted a competitive total of 190/9 in their 20 overs. Virat Kohli top-scored with a calm and composed 43 off 35 balls, holding the innings together. RCB’s innings was more about partnerships and grit than fireworks, as Punjab’s Kyle Jamieson and Arshdeep Singh shared 3 wickets each to keep things under control.
In reply, Punjab Kings started strong. The top order gave fans hope, but RCB’s bowlers turned the tide at the perfect moment. Shashank Singh played a gem of a knock—61 off 30 balls* but it wasn’t enough as PBKS fell short by just 6 runs.
Bhubaneswar’s 17th Over Brilliance
If one moment changed the game, it was Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s magical 17th over, where he dismissed both Nehal Wadhera and Marcus Stoinis in just three balls. His calm under pressure was crucial, and with Krunal Pandya’s economical spell of 2 wickets, the middle overs were locked down completely.
Punjab’s innings ended at 184/7, heartbreakingly close to history but just not enough.
RCB’s playing XI featured experience and youth
Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Mayank Agarwal, Rajat Patidar (C), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood. Punjab’s challenge was led by Priyansh Arya, Josh Inglis (WK), Shreyas Iyer (C), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Kyle Jamieson, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal.
The End of a Drought
For fans, RCB’s journey has been one of hope, memes, disappointments, and unshakable loyalty. This win wasn’t just about a trophy; it was about closure, about honoring the legacy of players like Kohli and AB de Villiers who gave their all to the team.
From the chants of “Ee Sala Cup Namde” to “Ee Sala Cup Aamcha Aahe”, RCB’s IPL 2025 title is a love letter to resilience and belief.
Final Thoughts
This final reminded us why IPL is not just a cricket league, it’s an emotion. And for RCB, it’s finally Mission Accomplished.
