In a historic turn of events, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinched their first-ever title in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Tuesday, defeating the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a thrilling final. This victory marks the end of an 18-year-long wait for RCB, a franchise that has often been the subject of mockery due to its previous unsuccessful attempts in the highly competitive T20 league.
The moment RCB lifted the trophy sent shockwaves through the world of social media, with fans and former players celebrating this long-awaited triumph. One notable reaction came from Vijay Mallya, the franchise's former owner, who has faced his share of controversies. Mallya expressed his joy over RCB’s victory, reflecting on his journey with the team since its inception in 2008.
Vijay Mallya, who was instrumental in establishing RCB, fondly remembered his early days with the franchise. He played a crucial role in signing iconic players like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Chris Gayle. As Kohli celebrated the championship win, both Gayle and De Villiers were present at the venue, sharing in the euphoria of this historic moment.
In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), Mallya congratulated RCB, stating, “EE Sala Cup Namde!!” which translates to “This time the cup is ours!” He expressed his dream of seeing the IPL trophy come to Bengaluru, highlighting Kohli's remarkable 18-year journey with the team. Mallya reminisced about his pride in selecting both Gayle and De Villiers, marking their contributions as integral to RCB's legacy.
With this victory, RCB has finally secured its place in the annals of IPL history as champions. Their superb campaign throughout the 2025 IPL tournament showcased a well-balanced team that played boldly under outstanding coaching and support staff. This win not only fulfills the aspirations of the players but also brings joy to the devoted RCB fans who have stood by the team through thick and thin.
With RCB's victory, only the Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings remain as franchises that have participated in the IPL since its inception in 2008 without lifting the prestigious trophy. This win is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports, where perseverance and teamwork can ultimately lead to success.
As the celebrations continue, RCB fans are filled with hope and excitement for the future, eagerly anticipating the next season and the opportunity to defend their title as IPL champions.