Virat Kohli and Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally ended an 18-year wait as they clinched their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title, defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in a nail-biting final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. But while the on-field celebration was grand, it was the post-match dressing room scene that truly captured the emotion, unity, and spirit of a team that had fought so long for this moment.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!After Kohli’s crucial 43 off 35 set the tone for a 190-run total, RCB held their nerve to deny Punjab in the final over, prompting wild celebrations among the 91,000 fans in attendance. But once inside the dressing room, Director of Cricket Mo Bobat delivered a stirring speech that summed up the magnitude of the victory.
Who's that IPL player?"Everybody in this room, well done. We should be incredibly proud of what we've achieved. This is without question one of the most anticipated trophies in world sport," Bobat said, acknowledging not just the players but the entire support staff, from coaches and analysts to the logistics team.
WATCH:Reflecting on Kohli’s loyalty and sacrifices over nearly two decades, Bobat singled him out: "I know you don’t like being singled out, Virat, but thank you for everything. You deserve this more than anyone."
Bobat praised captain Rajat Patidar, the team’s unwavering self-belief, and the adaptability shown during mid-season disruptions. He also lauded unsung heroes like Phil Salt and Josh Hazlewood for their commitment despite tight schedules and personal sacrifices.
Encouraging the team to enjoy the moment, Bobat urged them to “get addicted to this feeling,” and look ahead: "Next year we’ll have a final in Bengaluru — and we go again."
As RCB prepare to return to Bengaluru for a grand parade, the echoes of this triumph — in the stands, the streets, and most intimately, in the dressing room — are sure to resonate for years to come.
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