Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally etched their name in history by clinching their maiden IPL title, defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in a gripping final of the 2025 season. The victory marked the end of an 18-year-long wait filled with heartbreaks, near-misses, and unwavering fan loyalty. The RCB camp erupted with joy, and across the world, fans celebrated the emotional high they had dreamed of for years.
The emotions were raw on the field as well. Virat Kohli, the heart and soul of RCB for more than a decade, was seen tearing up even before the final ball was bowled. Memories of the 2016 final loss resurfaced, a match in which RCB came agonizingly close but couldn’t cross the finish line. Interestingly, Stuart Binny, who is married to IPL host Mayanti Langer, was a part of that squad and had also faced the sting of that defeat.
After the final whistle blew and the win was confirmed, Kohli was seen walking proudly across the field with the trophy in his hands — a moment of redemption and fulfillment. Bengaluru’s own Mayanti Langer, overwhelmed with emotion, approached Kohli during the post-match celebration. She shared how personal this win was for her, recalling her husband’s near miss in 2016, and asked Kohli if she could hold the trophy — a request he graciously fulfilled.
The match itself was nothing short of a thriller. RCB had posted a competitive total of 190 for 9 in their 20 overs. Despite the modest total by modern T20 standards, Punjab Kings started their chase on a shaky note. Though they had promising moments, they kept losing wickets at key intervals and never really got ahead of the required rate.
Grateful that @RCBTweets included us in this special moment. 🙏🏼 that was a nod to the 2016 team, I was only the messenger. https://t.co/1RjgF3RLrO
— Mayanti Langer Binny (@MayantiLanger_B) June 4, 2025
Shashank Singh’s valiant 61 not out off just 30 balls gave Punjab a glimmer of hope towards the end, but it wasn’t enough. RCB held their nerve and crossed the final hurdle to secure a historic win. Under Rajat Patidar’s leadership, and with heroes across the lineup, RCB finally ended their title drought — and gave their loyal fans a moment they will cherish forever.