Author: Akshay Published Date: June 4, 2025
In a culmination of years of perseverance and near misses, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally etched their name into the annals of the Indian Premier League by clinching their first-ever title. Facing off against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, RCB emerged victorious by a narrow margin of six runs, delivering a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last ball.
Setting the Stage: RCB’s Innings
Opting to bat first, RCB posted a total of 190 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs. Virat Kohli led the charge with a composed 43 runs, providing a steady foundation for the innings. However, the team faced a mid-innings slump, losing four wickets for just 19 runs towards the end. Despite this, contributions from the lower order ensured a competitive total on the board.
Punjab Kings’ Valiant Chase
Chasing 191 for victory, PBKS encountered early setbacks but found hope in Shashank Singh’s explosive unbeaten 61 off 30 balls. His aggressive approach brought the required run rate within reach. However, RCB’s bowlers held their nerve in the death overs, with Krunal Pandya delivering a match-defining performance that earned him the Player of the Match award.
A Historic Triumph
This victory marked the end of an 18-year wait for RCB, a team that had previously reached the finals but never secured the championship. The emotional scenes post-match reflected the significance of this achievement for players and fans alike.