After 18 seasons filled with heartbreaks, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally clinched their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title on 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 wild celebrations.
Days later, South African legend AB de Villiers penned an emotional letter on Instagram, celebrating RCB’s historic triumph.
De Villiers, who was associated with the Bengaluru-based franchise from 2011 to 2021, watched the title clash from the stands.
"Dear RCB family, Last night was something words will never fully do justice to, but I will try, because the heart deserves to speak when it is full. As I walked into the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the sun had already dipped below the skyline, but it felt like the red of RCB still lit up the horizon. A neutral venue, they said, but when I heard the roar, saw the jerseys, the flags, the faces painted with red and gold, I knew this was home," said de Villiers in the latter.
He called the victory a culmination of belief, heartbreaks, miracles and undying loyalty from the fans.
“What I witnessed was not just a cricket match, but a culmination. A culmination of belief, heartbreaks, near misses, miracles, and an undying loyalty that no trophy, until now, had been able to reward. But last night, it happened. RCB, the team that became family to me, are the champions of the IPL. Well, it feels good to say that,” he added.
De Villiers also opened up on his special moment with Virat Kohli near the boundary during the final stages of the match as the emotions got the better of the legendary pair.
“And then, as if the night hadn't already stirred every emotion, there was Virat, standing at long off, right in front of me. Our eyes met for a brief moment, and that was all it took. We did not need words. In that quiet exchange, everything was understood. The years, the near misses, the weight we had both carried for this dream. There were tears, yes, but more than that, there was a deep, unspoken knowing. We have shared countless innings, conversations, and battles together, but the words he spoke after the game, the way he acknowledged our journey, contributions, and shared memories, it touched a part of me that few things in this game ever have. That moment reminded me. It is not about the numbers,” he remarked.
De Villiers expressed pride in seeing youngsters like Rajat Patidar and Devdutt Padikkal succeed on the big stage.
"To the RCB management, to the coaching staff, to the ever loyal fans, and to every single player who's worn this jersey, thank you for allowing me to be a part of this beautiful legacy. Even though I was not out there batting last night, a piece of my heart always will be. This title means more because of the journey that came before it, and for me, this will always be one of the greatest joys of my life. Seeing the team I love finally lift their trophy. With all my love, pride, and gratitude, you Mr. 360."
AB de Villiers holds the position of RCB's second-highest run-scorer with 4,522 runs in 157 matches at an average of 41.10, including two hundreds and 37 half-centuries at a strike rate of 158.33.
