After waiting for 18 long years, Virat Kohli and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally created history by winning their first-ever IPL trophy. The moment was emotional and unforgettable, not just for Kohli but for fans across the world who have followed his journey since 2008. Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar also joined the celebration and sent a touching message to Kohli after the thrilling victory.
All You Need to Know
- RCB defeated PBKS by 6 runs in IPL 2025 Final
- Match took place at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
- Kohli top-scored with 43 runs
- RCB posted 190/9
- PBKS managed 184/7 in reply
- Kohli finished season with 657 runs in 15 matches
- Sachin Tendulkar posted an emotional message for Kohli
Sachin Tendulkar’s Beautiful Tribute to Kohli
Soon after the final ended, Sachin Tendulkar took to X (formerly Twitter) to post a classy message. He wrote, “Congratulations to @RCBTweets on their first-ever IPL title. Fitting that jersey no. 18 lifts the trophy in the 18th edition. Well played and well deserved! Well played to @PunjabKingsIPL as well for a well-fought season.”
This message touched the hearts of many, especially because Tendulkar is Kohli’s idol. The reference to jersey no.18 winning in the 18th edition added to the magic of the moment. Kohli’s face was full of emotion when the final ball was bowled. He even said, “I never thought this day would come. I gave it everything I have. I was overcome with emotion.”
Virat Kohli Lift Trophy: A Dream Come True
For years, IPL fans have waited to see Kohli lift the trophy. He had reached the final thrice before—in 2009, 2011 and 2016—but victory had always slipped away. This year, things were different. Kohli was not just consistent, he was also the highest run-scorer for RCB with 657 runs in 15 matches. His top score in the final was 43, which helped RCB set a competitive target.
After the win, Kohli shared the stage with his former teammates AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle. The trio lifted the trophy together, giving fans a picture-perfect moment they will remember forever.
How the Final Match Unfolded
RCB were put to bat first and scored 190/9. Kohli was the top-scorer, while Jitesh Sharma and Liam Livingstone added quick runs at the end. Punjab Kings began their chase strongly, but Krunal Pandya changed the game with his tight spell of 2/17. Punjab tried to fight back with a brilliant 61 not out from Shashank Singh, but it wasn’t enough. They ended at 184/7, just 6 runs short.
Arshdeep Singh and Kyle Jamieson were Punjab’s best bowlers, taking 3 wickets each. But in the end, RCB held their nerve and finally got their hands on the title.
Emotions Run High
This victory means much more than just a trophy for Kohli. After years of criticism for not winning an IPL, he finally silenced the doubters. He called the moment the most emotional of his cricketing life. “I have given my youth, my prime… this means everything to me,” he said, almost in tears.
Virat Kohli’s IPL journey has been a story of patience, loyalty and hard work. Finally, in 2025, he got the reward he truly deserved. RCB’s first IPL trophy has become one of the most iconic moments in IPL history. With a tribute from his idol Tendulkar, and celebrations with Gayle and de Villiers, this moment will stay close to the hearts of cricket fans forever.
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FAQs
Who won the IPL 2025 final?
RCB won the IPL 2025 final by 6 runs against PBKS.
How did Virat Kohli perform in the final?
Kohli scored 43 runs and was the highest run-scorer for RCB in the match.
What did Sachin Tendulkar say about Kohli’s win?
Sachin congratulated Kohli and called it fitting that jersey no.18 won in IPL’s 18th edition.
Who were the top bowlers in the match?
Arshdeep Singh and Kyle Jamieson took 3 wickets each for PBKS; Krunal Pandya took 2 key wickets for RCB.
Did Kohli lift the trophy alone?
No, he invited AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle to lift the trophy with him on stage.