The long wait is over. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have finally lifted their maiden IPL trophy in 2025, ending an 18-year quest filled with near misses and heartbreaks. Their six-run victory over Punjab Kings in the final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium wasn’t just a win—it was a culmination of strategic brilliance, individual excellence, and unyielding determination. Here are the top five reasons that propelled RCB to their historic triumph:

1. Virat Kohli’s Inspirational Leadership and Consistent Performance
Even though Rajat Patidar captained the side, it was Virat Kohli‘s unwavering presence and performance that anchored the team. Scoring 657 runs in the season, including a crucial 43 in the final, Kohli became the all-time leader in IPL fours with 771 boundaries. His emotional reaction post-victory, shedding tears of joy, epitomized the significance of this win for both him and the franchise.

2. Josh Hazlewood’s Lethal Bowling Attack
The Australian pacer, Josh Hazlewood, was instrumental in RCB’s bowling lineup, claiming 22 wickets in the season. His ability to deliver under pressure was evident in the final, where his disciplined bowling restricted Punjab Kings to 184/7, sealing the victory for RCB.

3. Strategic Squad Balance and Depth
RCB’s management crafted a well-balanced squad combining seasoned internationals with emerging talents. Players like Krunal Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar provided depth in both batting and bowling, while young talents like Suyash Sharma stepped up when it mattered most.

4. Jitesh Sharma’s Explosive Batting
Wicketkeeper-batsman Jitesh Sharma emerged as a surprise package, delivering quick-fire innings throughout the tournament. His aggressive batting style provided RCB with the momentum needed in crucial matches, including a standout performance against Lucknow Super Giants, where he scored an unbeaten 85 off 33 balls.

5. Resilience and Team Unity
RCB‘s journey was marked by resilience. After facing setbacks in previous seasons, the team showcased unity and determination, bouncing back stronger each time. Their collective spirit and belief in their mission were evident in their performances, culminating in their well-deserved championship.

RCB‘s 2025 IPL victory is not just a testament to individual brilliance but also to strategic planning, team cohesion, and an unbreakable spirit. As fans celebrate this monumental achievement, the team’s journey serves as an inspiration for perseverance and dedication in the face of adversity.

In a moment that will be etched in cricketing history, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinched their first-ever IPL title in 2025, defeating the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a thrilling final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This victory marks the end of an 18-year quest for the elusive trophy, bringing immense joy to fans worldwide.

Batting first, RCB posted a competitive total of 190/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Despite a strong start, the team faced a mid-innings collapse, with four wickets falling for just 19 runs in the final overs. Virat Kohli anchored the innings with a steady 43 off 35 balls, while contributions from Mayank Agarwal and Jitesh Sharma bolstered the score.

In response, PBKS began their chase with determination. However, RCB’s bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, delivered under pressure. Hazlewood’s early breakthroughs and Bhuvneshwar’s crucial wickets in the death overs restricted PBKS to 184/7, sealing a memorable victory for RCB.

The triumph sparked euphoric celebrations among RCB fans, who had been fervently supporting their team through years of near misses. Social media was abuzz with the rallying cry “Ee Sala Cup Namde”, a slogan that had become synonymous with RCB’s pursuit of the title. Notably, Canadian rapper Drake had placed a substantial bet on RCB’s victory, further highlighting the global anticipation surrounding the final.

This historic win not only fulfills the dreams of countless supporters but also cements RCB’s place in IPL lore. As the team lifts the trophy, a new chapter begins, filled with renewed hope and the promise of continued excellence in the seasons to come.

In an emotional day for cricket fans around the globe, the sport witnessed two heartfelt retirements that have left many stunned. Australian cricket’s flamboyant and fearless ODI all-rounder Glenn Maxwell officially announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs). On the very same day, Heinrich Klaasen, the resilient South African wicketkeeper-batsman, declared his retirement from all international cricket.

Maxwell, known for his explosive batting and dynamic fielding, has been a crowd favorite with his ability to turn games on their heads. Over the years, the Australian middle-order stalwart entertained fans with his unconventional shots and electric energy on the field. His decision to retire from the ODI format marks the end of a significant chapter in Australian cricket’s limited-overs history. Though he may still continue in T20 leagues and possibly Test cricket, fans will undoubtedly miss his presence in the ODI arena.

Meanwhile, the South African cricket fraternity also bid farewell to a dependable campaigner in Heinrich Klaasen. Having played as a key white-ball player for South Africa, Klaasen has been an important figure behind the stumps and with the bat, often delivering crucial performances under pressure. His retirement from international cricket signals a shift in South African cricket, leaving space for new talent to rise in the competitive cricket landscape.

The day has left cricket lovers with mixed emotions — nostalgia for the memorable moments these players gave us and sadness for the void their absence will create. As Maxwell and Klaasen close this chapter of their careers, the cricketing world celebrates their contributions and wishes them success in their future endeavors.

Both players have shown immense dedication and passion for the game, and their retirements remind us of the ever-evolving nature of international cricket. Fans will cherish the memories they created and look forward to seeing what new paths these stars take after their illustrious playing careers.