Next Story
Newszop

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Clinch Their First IPL Title After 18 Years

Send Push
RCB's Dream Comes True

For nearly two decades, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have pursued a dream, a promise echoed by their devoted supporters — 'Ee Sala Cup Namde' (This time the Cup is ours). On a memorable Tuesday evening at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, that dream was finally realized. RCB triumphed over Punjab Kings with a nail-biting six-run victory, securing their first Indian Premier League (IPL) championship and putting an end to years of disappointment.


The chant transformed from 'Ee Sala Cup Namde' to 'Ee Sala Cup Namdu'.



How RCB Achieved Their Historic Victory

In the final match, RCB batted first and crafted a total that was just enough to defend. Virat Kohli played a crucial role, scoring 43 runs off 35 balls, characterized more by grit than flair. He managed only three boundaries, with two coming after the ninth over, before he was dismissed while attempting to accelerate the scoring on a challenging pitch.


RCB finished their innings at 190/9, a score that seemed modest at the halfway point, especially after a sluggish middle phase where they could only muster 42 runs between overs 6 to 11. Despite a strong start in the powerplay (55/1), RCB's innings lacked the necessary momentum. Key players like Mayank Agarwal (24), Rajat Patidar (26), and Liam Livingstone (25) got starts but couldn't convert them into bigger scores.


Kyle Jamieson from Punjab excelled with the ball, taking out Salt, Patidar, and Livingstone with skillful variations, although a costly 23-run over late in the innings affected his overall performance.


Punjab's Response and RCB's Bowling Prowess

In response, Punjab Kings began well, with impact substitute Prabhsimran Singh (26) and Priyansh Arya (24) providing early momentum. However, RCB's bowlers steadily chipped away at their innings. Josh Hazlewood struck first, while Krunal Pandya delivered an exceptional spell, finishing with figures of 4-0-17-2. A stunning catch by Phil Salt to dismiss Arya energized RCB's fielding unit.


The match turned decisively when Romario Shepherd dismissed Punjab's captain Shreyas Iyer, who was in formidable form, with a seemingly innocuous delivery outside off. Iyer, who had just played a match-winning innings in Qualifier 2, edged it behind, marking a pivotal moment in the game.


Punjab's middle order struggled under pressure, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar's double strike in the 17th over, taking out Nehal Wadhera and Marcus Stoinis in quick succession, effectively sealed the match. Despite a late surge from Shashank Singh (61* off 30), Punjab fell short, finishing at 184/7.


Kohli's Emotional Victory Speech

The moment was significant for many, but it held special meaning for Virat Kohli. His eyes were filled with tears, a reflection of the emotional journey shared by countless RCB fans. 'To finally have it is an unbelievable feeling. I never thought this day would come,' Kohli expressed after the victory. 'I’ve dedicated my youth and experience to this team, striving to win every season.'


The victory was particularly sweet for loyal RCB supporters who have stood by the franchise since its inception. Kohli, who recently retired from Test cricket, reaffirmed his commitment to RCB, stating, 'This moment ranks among the best in my career, but it still falls short of Test cricket in terms of value.' He also paid tribute to his close friend and RCB legend AB de Villiers, saying, 'What ABD has done for this franchise is tremendous. This win is as much his as it is ours.'


A Promise Fulfilled

For RCB, this victory was more than just a trophy; it symbolized redemption and relief. The slogan 'Ee Sala Cup Namde', once a source of humor, is now a cherished memory. Kohli, the passionate leader, finally grasped the elusive title, bringing peace to millions of hearts. 'And tonight,' Kohli said with a radiant smile, 'I’m going to sleep like a baby.'


After 18 years, RCB fans will also find solace.


Loving Newspoint? Download the app now