IPL 2025: Krunal Helps Virat Kohli Break 18-Year Drought
At the pre-match press conference leading up to the IPL 2025 final, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar emphasized that his team would approach the match like any other game. Staying true to his words, RCB claimed victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) by a narrow six runs, marking a historic moment as they and Virat Kohli ended an 18-year wait for the IPL trophy. This win not only fulfilled the franchise’s long-standing ambition but also marked a significant personal achievement for Kohli, who has been with the team since its inception.
### RCB’s Tactical Approach
In a match filled with high stakes, RCB showcased a well-rounded performance that diverged from their past reliance on individual brilliance. Instead of depending solely on star players, the team collectively contributed to the victory. Phil Salt set the tone at the start with a quick-fire 17 runs off just nine balls, followed by Mayank Agarwal, who added 24 runs in 18 balls. Captain Rajat Patidar played a crucial role with a composed innings, scoring 26 runs off 16 deliveries. The standout moment came from Jitesh Sharma, whose explosive 25 off 10 balls included two sixes that shifted the momentum in RCB’s favor. The team finished their innings with a total of 190 runs, a score that proved sufficient despite being considered below par for the pitch conditions in Ahmedabad.
### Bowling Prowess
RCB’s bowling attack was another key factor in their success. Josh Hazlewood, who had earlier stated that the team had all their bowling bases covered, was proven right during the final. Krunal Pandya emerged as a pivotal player, delivering an exceptional performance with the ball. He ended his spell with impressive figures of 2 for 17, claiming the important wickets of Prabhsimran Singh and Josh Inglis. Pandya’s ability to bowl 11 dot balls significantly disrupted PBKS’s chase, maintaining pressure and draining their momentum. The collective bowling effort kept PBKS at bay, allowing RCB to defend their total successfully.
### A Heartfelt Moment for Kohli
The final on June 3 will be remembered not just for the victory but also for the emotional significance it held for Virat Kohli. As the match concluded, Kohli couldn’t contain his emotions, shedding tears of joy as he celebrated with his teammates. The one-lakh-strong crowd, with a majority donning Kohli’s No. 18 jersey, showed their unwavering support, hoping for this moment of redemption after nearly two decades. Kohli had previously expressed his frustrations over the years without an IPL title, but this victory lifted that weight off his shoulders. The long-awaited trophy not only fulfilled a dream for the franchise but also provided Kohli with a sense of closure, marking a milestone in his illustrious career with RCB.
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