In a historic and emotional climax to the 2025 Indian Premier League, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended their 18-year wait for glory, clinching their maiden IPL title with a nail-biting six-run victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS). The grand finale unfolded at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, delivering a match that lived up to every ounce of its hype and etched a new chapter in IPL history.
A Long-Awaited Triumph
Since the inception of the IPL in 2008, RCB had been perennial contenders but had fallen short in three previous finals. This victory ends an 18-year title drought, bringing immense joy to their dedicated fanbase. Virat Kohli, who has been with the franchise since its inception, expressed profound emotion after the win, stating, “This win is as much for the fans as it is for the team. It’s been 18 long years. I’ve given this team my youth, my prime, my experience.”
Match Highlights: RCB vs PBKS – IPL 2025 Final
Batting first in the high-stakes IPL 2025 final, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) set a competitive total of 190 runs, anchored by Virat Kohli’s composed 43 off 35 balls. The innings saw useful contributions from the middle order, though wickets fell at regular intervals.
In response, Punjab Kings (PBKS) fought hard with a spirited chase, led by Shashank Singh’s unbeaten 61 off 30 balls. His explosive finish brought PBKS agonizingly close, but it was too little, too late.
RCB’s bowlers rose to the occasion, especially Krunal Pandya, whose exceptional spell of 2 for 17 on a tricky Ahmedabad pitch earned him the Player of the Match. Josh Hazlewood held his nerve in the final over, sealing a historic 6-run win for RCB and ending their 18-year title drought.
READ MORE: RCB’s IPL 2025 Top-Two Finish Hopes Dented After 42-Run Loss to SRH at Lucknow
RCB’s Emotional Celebrations
The long-awaited victory ignited widespread celebrations across Bengaluru and beyond. An emotional Virat Kohli, the face of RCB for nearly two decades, marked the historic moment by inviting former legends Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers to join him on the podium. The gesture was a heartfelt tribute to the stars who had carried RCB through many highs and heartbreaks over the years.
Meanwhile, the streets of Bengaluru turned into a sea of red and gold, with fans flooding public squares and waving flags. Echoes of the iconic chant “Ee Sala Cup Namdu” (This year, the cup is ours) rang through the city, symbolizing a dream finally realized.
Prize Money and Recognition
As champions of IPL 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru were awarded a prize purse of ₹20 crore, marking a grand reward for their perseverance and dominance. Punjab Kings, the valiant runners-up, took home ₹12.5 crore, capping off a campaign filled with promise and grit.
Looking Ahead: A New Era Begins for RCB
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s long-awaited title win ushers in a new era for the franchise, finally rewarding years of loyalty, perseverance, and relentless pursuit of glory. With a balanced squad and experienced leadership, RCB will now look to build on this success and establish a lasting legacy.
For Punjab Kings, the IPL 2025 final was a showcase of their immense potential. Led by emerging stars and backed by bold strategies, PBKS have laid a strong foundation for future campaigns. Their journey this season proved they are no longer underdogs—but serious contenders.
As the curtain falls on IPL 2025, RCB’s historic triumph stands tall as a symbol of resilience, unity, and the never-give-up spirit that defines the sport of cricket.
