Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) scripted history on Tuesday as they defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a thrilling IPL 2025 final, ending an agonizing 18-year wait for their maiden IPL trophy. The victory marked a watershed moment for one of the IPL's most popular franchises, finally silencing years of heartbreak and bringing joy to millions of RCB fans worldwide.
The triumph was made even more special by the presence of RCB legends at the venue. As captain Virat Kohli lifted the coveted IPL trophy, former RCB superstars Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers were present to witness this historic moment, adding emotional weight to the celebration that had been 18 years in the making.
Vijay Mallya's Emotional Tribute
The victory prompted an emotional response from RCB's former owner, Vijay Mallya, who played a pivotal role in establishing the franchise and building its legacy. Despite being a fugitive, Mallya took to social media to express his overwhelming joy at seeing his dream finally realized.
"RCB are IPL Champions finally after 18 years. Superb campaign right through the 2025 tournament. A well balanced team Playing Bold with outstanding coaching and support staff. Many congratulations! Ee sala cup namde !!" Mallya posted on X (formerly Twitter), using the iconic slogan that has become synonymous with RCB's quest for glory.
In a follow-up post that revealed the depth of his connection to the franchise, Mallya wrote: "When I founded RCB it was my dream that the IPL trophy should come to Bengaluru. I had the privilege of picking the legendary King Kohli as a youngster and it is remarkable that he has stayed with RCB for 18 years."
The Architect of RCB's Foundation
Mallya's role in RCB's journey cannot be understated. As the franchise's founder and first owner since the inaugural IPL season in 2008, Mallya was instrumental in shaping RCB's identity. His most significant contribution was identifying and signing a young Virat Kohli, a decision that would define the franchise for nearly two decades.
"I also had the honour of picking Chris Gayle the Universe Boss and Mr 360 AB DeVilliers who remain an indelible part of RCB history," Mallya continued, acknowledging the other cricketing legends he brought to the franchise. These signings helped establish RCB as one of the most entertaining and followed teams in the IPL, despite their trophy drought.
Breaking the Drought
The IPL 2025 final victory was particularly sweet for RCB, who had endured years of mockery and trolling despite being one of the most popular franchises in the tournament. The team's "Play Bold" philosophy finally paid dividends as they secured their first-ever IPL title in a nail-biting finish against Punjab Kings.
The victory was a testament to the team's resilience and the unwavering support of their fans, who had waited patiently through 17 seasons of disappointment. Mallya's closing message captured the essence of this triumph: "Finally, the IPL trophy arrives in Bengaluru. Congratulations and thanks again to all who made my dream come true. RCB fans are the very best and they deserve the IPL trophy. Ee Sala Cup Bengaluru baruthe!"
Impact on IPL Landscape
With RCB's maiden victory, the IPL's landscape has shifted significantly. The triumph leaves Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings as the only two original franchises from 2008 yet to win an IPL title, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament and the difficulty of securing cricket's most prestigious T20 trophy.
The victory represents more than just a sporting achievement; it's the culmination of years of investment, passion, and dedication from players, management, and fans alike. For Virat Kohli, who has been the face of RCB throughout their journey, lifting the IPL trophy as captain represents the pinnacle of his IPL career.
The Emotional Homecoming
The presence of former RCB legends Gayle and de Villiers at the final added an emotional dimension to the victory. These players, who gave their best years to RCB during Mallya's ownership, witnessed the franchise finally achieve what had eluded them during their playing days.
The victory validates the "Ee Sala Cup Namde" (This year, the cup is ours) chant that has echoed through the stands at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for years. After 18 years of hope, heartbreak, and unwavering faith, RCB fans can finally celebrate their team as IPL champions.
This historic triumph will be remembered as the moment when Royal Challengers Bengaluru transformed from the "most loved losers" to IPL champions, proving that persistence and belief can eventually overcome any obstacle in the pursuit of glory.
