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AHMEDABAD: Star batter Virat Kohli couldn’t hold back tears as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended their 18-year-long title drought, clinching their first-ever IPL trophy with a tense six-run win over Punjab Kings.
RCB were put into bat and posted 190/9, with Kohli top-scoring with a 35-ball 43, a knock that drew some criticism for its tempo, but proved crucial in the end.
The innings also featured some fireworks from the lower order, helping RCB post a competitive total.
Punjab Kings made a solid start in the chase, but the tide turned during the middle overs, thanks to Krunal Pandya’s miserly spell of 2/17.
The pressure mounted steadily, and though the Kings fought till the end, the target eventually proved out of reach.
With 29 runs required off the last four balls, the result was all but sealed. And for Virat Kohli, who had carried the burden of expectation for so many years, the moment broke him.
As the final ball of IPL 2025 was launched for a consolation six, Kohli collapsed to the ground, overcome with emotion.
Teammates rushed in to celebrate, but for him, it was the release of years of heartbreak, loyalty, and unwavering belief in the franchise.
“I’ve given this team my youth, prime and experience,” said a visibly emotional Kohli after the match.
“I’ve tried to win it every season, and gave it everything I have. To finally have it is an unbelievable feeling. I was overcome with emotion after the last ball. Gave each and every ounce of my energy, and it’s an amazing feeling.”
Having featured in three IPL finals previously without success, this win marked the end of a long, painful wait, both for Kohli and the RCB fans.
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