In a nail-biting finish at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally lifted their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy, defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 6 runs in a high-octane final. After 16 long years of perseverance, RCB’s dream turned into reality, sending waves of jubilation across Bengaluru and their massive fanbase worldwide.
A Hard-Fought Victory
After being asked to bat first, RCB posted a competitive 190/9 in 20 overs, thanks to crucial contributions from Virat Kohli (43) and skipper Rajat Patidar (26). Punjab’s Arshdeep Singh and Kyle Jamieson starred with the ball, taking three wickets each.
In reply, PBKS fought hard, with Shashank Singh’s unbeaten 61 keeping them in the hunt. However, Krunal Pandya’s brilliant spell (2/17 in 4 overs) turned the game in RCB’s favor, earning him the Player of the Match award. Punjab fell short, finishing at 184/9, as RCB’s bowlers held their nerve in the death overs.
Emotional Reactions from RCB Camp
An emotional Rajat Patidar dedicated the win to the fans and Virat Kohli, saying, “The fans and Virat bhai deserve this more than anyone. This victory is for them.” He also praised the team management and coaching staff for their unwavering support.
Individual Awards Recap
Orange Cap (Most Runs): Sai Sudarshan (Gujarat Titans)
Purple Cap (Most Wickets): Prasidh Krishna (Gujarat Titans)
Most Valuable Player (MVP): Suryakumar Yadav (Mumbai Indians)
Bengaluru’s Grand Welcome for the Champions
The city of Bengaluru is buzzing with excitement as fans eagerly await the arrival of their heroes. The team will be felicitated at Vidhana Soudha by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, followed by a victory parade in an open bus from Vidhana Soudha to M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where a massive celebration awaits.
Fans have taken to the streets, dancing, bursting crackers, and chanting “Ee Sala Cup Namde” (This time, the cup is ours), a slogan that has finally come true. Social media is flooded with celebrations as RCB’s long wait for an IPL title ends in glory.
A New Era for RCB
This victory marks a new chapter for RCB, proving that perseverance and belief can break even the longest droughts. As the team returns home with the coveted trophy, the 12th Man Army (RCB fans) stands prouder than ever.