Ahmedabad, June 4 — After scripting history with Royal Challengers Bangalore’s maiden IPL title, skipper Rajat Patidar was brimming with emotion and gratitude. Following their thrilling 6-run win over Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 final, Patidar hailed the victory as a tribute to the team’s longest-serving warrior — Virat Kohli — and the fans who have stood by the franchise for nearly two decades.
“Virat and the Fans Deserve This the Most” – Patidar
“This moment is incredibly special for me, but even more for Virat Kohli,” said Patidar moments after lifting the trophy. “This win belongs to the fans who have supported us unconditionally for 18 years. They are the true deserving ones.”
RCB’s title win in Ahmedabad marked the end of one of the longest trophy waits in IPL history. For Patidar, who took over captaincy duties this season, the journey was one of belief and unity. Reflecting on the turning point, he said, “It was after our performance in Qualifier 1 that I started to believe this could really be our year. The energy, confidence, and rhythm in the team were just unbelievable.”
Bowling Execution Was the Key, Says Skipper
RCB posted a solid 190 on a slow surface in the final. Patidar acknowledged it was a competitive total, thanks to smart strategy and exceptional execution from the bowlers. “190 was a good score on this pitch — the wicket was a bit slow. The way our bowlers implemented the plan was commendable. Especially Krunal Pandya’s spell — that was the turning point. He has this knack for delivering under pressure. Four overs, 17 runs, and two wickets — just outstanding.”
Praising his go-to man in tense situations, Patidar added, “Whenever I feel pressure, I look for KP — Krunal Pandya. I trust him completely. Beyond him, Suyash, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, and Josh Hazlewood — every bowler delivered this season.”
“Leading RCB Alongside Virat Was an Honor”
Speaking about sharing the dressing room and leadership space with Virat Kohli, Patidar said, “Captaining alongside Virat was a huge opportunity for me. I’ve learned so much from him. He is the true architect of this franchise’s spirit. He’s always backed the players, the management, and the team. He deserved this title more than anyone.”
He also credited the coaching and support staff for maintaining the team’s morale and belief. “The encouragement and structure provided by Andy Flower, Mo Bobat, and the entire coaching setup were phenomenal. They kept the team mentally sharp and strategically sound.”
A New Era for RCB Begins
With this historic IPL 2025 win, RCB not only ended years of heartbreak but also etched a new legacy under Patidar’s leadership. As fireworks lit up the Ahmedabad sky, it wasn’t just a trophy that RCB claimed — it was the reward for resilience, loyalty, and a dream that refused to die.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.