In the aftermath of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) nerve-wracking six-run win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) during IPL 2025 final, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla heaped appreciation upon Virat Kohli for his steadfast loyalty to the franchise and targeted those who have questioned his skills in the past.
The last, played on Tuesday, June 3, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, was RCB’s first-ever IPL championship victory. Kohli, aged 36, was instrumental in the tournament and in the final showdown, cementing his position as the heart and soul of the side.
Shukla highlighted Kohli’s unique legacy, pointing out that he remains the only player to represent the same franchise since the inception of the IPL in 2008. Speaking to India Today, Shukla said:
“In the past 18 years, Virat has been the only steady hand in the IPL. He attempted a million times to make RCB champions, and even though it didn’t come to pass earlier, his determination never faltered. He was criticized – told he wasn’t a good captain, or that he didn’t qualify to be in the IPL. But look now.”
Shukla attributed RCB’s huge fan base across the world to Kohli as well, explaining that it’s due to his charisma and persona that the team has become one of the most followed in the league.
“RCB’s popularity owes a lot to Virat. Wherever they go, the team is packed with his fans. The team is well-known due to him,” he further added.
Kohli had a remarkable season in IPL 2025, being amongst the leading run-getters with 657 runs from 15 games at 54.75 with a strike rate of 144.71. His reliability was key in RCB’s efforts, and he topped the scoring in the tournament with a highest of 73 not out.
In the last, Kohli held the innings together with a stolid 43 from 35 balls, hitting three boundaries before getting out to Azmatullah Omarzai. His contribution took RCB to 190/9, which turned out to be just sufficient as they restricted PBKS to 184/7 in a close finish.
With this historic triumph, RCB and Kohli have finally discarded the “title-less” label, topping off a season that will be remembered for its passion, grit, and redemption.
Also Read: RCB Scripts History! Highest IPL Viewership Recorded After Maiden IPL Title Win
