Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) skipper Rajat Patidar said that Virat Kohli deserved to win the IPL title more than anyone else as they ended their 18-year long wait for the crown on Tuesday (June 3).
RCB edged out Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs in a thrilling IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, sending fans into a frenzy of celebration. The triumph also left Kohli emotional as the RCB talisman broke down in tears.
Speaking at the post-match presentation, Patidar said it was really special for him, Kohli and all the fans who have supported them all these years. The RCB captain further stated that the belief about securing the IPL title came when they won the Qualifier 1.
“I think it is really special for me and special for Virat Kohli and all the fans who have supported for years. They deserve it. After the Qualifier 1, at that time we thought we could do this,” Patidar quoted.
Asked to bat first, RCB posted 190/9 on the board in the big game. While Kohli was the top scorer with 35-ball 43, the likes of Patidar (26 off 16), Liam Livingstone (25 off 15) and Jitesh Sharma (24 off 10) made valuable contributions with the bat.
Defending the total, Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2-38 in 4 overs) and Krunal Pandya (2-17 in 4 overs) bowled magical spells to stop PBKS at 184/7 in 20 overs.
“I think 190 was a good score on this track because it was a bit slow. The way bowlers executed their plans was tremendous to watch. He's (Krunal) a wicket-taking bowler. Whenever I come under pressure, I look for KP. Suyash also bowled really well throughout the season. And all the fast bowlers - Bhuvi, Yash, Hazlewood and the way Romario came in and the way he gave 2-3 overs and the breakthrough was special,” Patidar remarked.
Rajat Patidar said it was a great opportunity for him to lead the RCB side and have Kohli playing under him.
“For me it's a great opportunity to do captaincy under him and it was a great learning for me. As I said he deserves it more than anyone else. Virat Kohli and all the fans. Everyone who has supported - the management, support staff - the way they've supported the players was beautiful,” he stated.
The RCB captain signed off by saying, “I just want to say one line for the fans - Ee sala Cup Namdu.”
