Thursday, Jun 5 2025 | Time 20:12 Hrs(IST)
SportsPosted at: Jun 4 2025 12:24AM


'I gave everything to RCB for 18 years', says Kohli

Ahmedabad, June 3 (UNI) "I have given this team my youth, my prime. I gave it everything I have. I never thought this day would come," Virat Kohli's voice trembled, his eyes welled up, and an 18-year-long weight lifted off his shoulders as Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally lifted their maiden IPL trophy after a dramatic six-run win over Punjab Kings here at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Tuesday.
This was more than just a cricketing victory. It was a culmination of nearly two decades of faith, fire and frustration for both Kohli and RCB’s devoted fanbase.
"I was overcome with emotion as soon as the last ball was bowled," the legendary batsman admitted, summing up the sentiment of a franchise and millions of its followers who had stayed loyal despite heartbreak after heartbreak.
For Kohli, this wasn't just about winning a trophy, it was about vindication.
"My heart is with Bengaluru, my soul is with Bengaluru. This is the team I will play for till the time I play the IPL. I have stayed loyal to this team, no matter what. I’ve had moments when I thought otherwise, but I stuck with this team,” he declared, as chants of "RCB! RCB!" rang around the stadium.
In an especially touching gesture, Kohli dedicated the win to AB de Villiers, his long-time teammate and friend.
"What he's done for this franchise is tremendous. Told him before the game as well – this one is as much yours and I wanted him to celebrate with us. He still has the most Man of the Match awards for us and he's been retired four years. He deserves to be on the podium with us," Kohli said.
Amid the joy, Kohli retained his grounded perspective on the game, placing the moment in the broader context of his career.
"This moment is right up there with the best in my career. But it still ranks five levels below Test cricket. If you want to earn respect, take up Test cricket," he stated.
The journey to the title had its critics, especially after the IPL auction. But Kohli praised the RCB setup, saying, “This management and group is outstanding, to be honest. A lot of people questioned us after the auction, but by Day 2 we were happy with what we had.”
As he stood under the floodlights, trophy in hand, soaking in the cheers and fireworks, Kohli spoke like a man at peace: “Tonight I’ll sleep like a baby. I have an opportunity to play this game for not many years. There’s an end-date to us. I want to give everything I have before that. Thankful to God for giving it in my lap finally.”
RCB’s title was more than just a result—it was a reward for unshakable loyalty, resilience, and a man who refused to give up on his team, even when hope seemed distant.
UNI BDN SS
Tags: #'I gave everything to RCB for 18 years'# says Kohli
More News
FIFA announces draw for U17 Women's World Cup

FIFA announces draw for U17 Women's World Cup

05 Jun 2025 | 6:46 PM

Geneva, June 5 (UNI) The draw for the ninth FIFA Under-17 Women's World Cup was announced on Wednesday, with the 2025 edition set to feature 24 teams for the first time.

see more..

Blue Tigers take lessons from Thailand result, set sights on Hong Kong

05 Jun 2025 | 6:42 PM

Pathum Thani (Thailand), June 5 (UNI) The 0-2 loss against Thailand was somewhat of a bitter pill
to swallow for the senior India men’s national team at the Thammasat Stadium here on Wednesday.

see more..

Ronaldo makes history as Portugal beat Germany in Nations League semi

05 Jun 2025 | 6:13 PM

Berlin, June 5 (UNI) Cristiano Ronaldo quietly slipped past the media in the mixed zone at Munich Arena, but his performance spoke volumes.

see more..
Phil Salt to miss West Indies T20s on paternity leave

Phil Salt to miss West Indies T20s on paternity leave

05 Jun 2025 | 6:08 PM

London, June 5 (UNI) England opener Phil Salt will miss the T20 series against West Indies on paternity leave.

see more..
Bengaluru stampede: RCB announces Rs 10 lakh aid to family of each deceased

Bengaluru stampede: RCB announces Rs 10 lakh aid to family of each deceased

05 Jun 2025 | 5:51 PM

Bengaluru, June 5 (UNI) Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Thursday announced financial support of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the eleven deceased in the tragic stampede that occurred during the team’s celebratory gathering in the city.

see more..