New Delhi: The 18-year wait is finally over, and when it’s over, all the Royal Challengers Bangalore players get emotional, especially Virat Kohliwho has been with the franchise since the league’s inception in 2008. Tears of joy, kissing the trophy, holding it proudly, and continuous celebration marked the scenes as RCB clinched their historic IPL 2025 title.Royal Challengers Bengaluru won their first IPL title after 18 years by defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.RCB’s all-rounder Krunal Pandya Reflecting on the title win, he called it one of the most emotional moments of his career and dedicated the victory to the fans and former captain Kohli.Speaking on JioStar’s “The Krunal Pandya Experience”, the all-rounder said the long-awaited trophy meant the most to Kohli, who struggled to contain his emotions after the win.“The people who deserve it the most are Virat Kohli and RCB fans. Virat has been an integral part of RCB since the first season. So it was special to win and see him get emotional. Seeing him cry was an emotional moment for everyone,” said Krunal.“People’s love for RCB is unbelievable. That day, I said on the mic that no matter what, we must win the trophy for the fans,” he added.Karunal said that fulfilling that promise after 18 years of waiting made the win even more meaningful.“I’m glad I said it and we managed to make it to the final. The fans deserved this trophy more than anyone else, and obviously 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 and contribute well has to be one of my best moments,” Krunal said.Krunal also spoke about his evolution as a cricketer over the years.“I have changed with time, for the better. As you travel, you learn. A lot of credit goes to my parents and their upbringing, but as a person, I am what I have been. I love cricket, am still passionate and passionate about playing. I have always been a family man. I love my family, kids and my wife,” said the all-rounder at RC-B.Pandya, who was bought by RCB at the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah for Rs 5.75 crore, was retained by RCB for the 2026 IPL season.In IPL 2026, RCB is currently placed second on the points table with 10 points.
