In the aftermath of Royal Challengers Bengaluru's historic first Indian Premier League (IPL) championship win in 2025, tearful Virat Kohli spoke before a full M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in the team's homecoming ceremony. The crowd was charged up with thousands of people shouting "Kohli, Kohli" in unity, which led to the RCB legend asking for a short break. "I don't have much time. We need to wrap this up." We have to display our trophy," he smiled, calling upon the crowd to allow him to speak.

Kohli started his address with a statement that marked the end of an 18-year waiting game: "It's no more Ee Saala Cup Namde. It's Ee Saala Cup Namdu. We have done it." His words renewed cheerfulness all over the stadium. He had the victory dedicated to RCB's faithful supporters and the city of Bengaluru in appreciation of their unstinting support during almost two decades of ups and downs. "This victory is not merely for the players but also for the supporters, the people of this great city," he further said.

Emotionally touched, Kohli praised the RCB supporters as unrivaled in international sport. "I have never seen any fanbase of any team in the world like you guys. Congratulations to all of you," he asserted. His humility and sense of appreciation touched the hearts of the wave of fans who had supported Kohli since the beginning of the franchise.

A Special Tribute to RCB's New Captain

Kohli then addressed the team's new captain, Rajat Patidar, who led RCB to their first title. Going back to the pre-season 'Unbox' function, Kohli reminded supporters how he stood up for Patidar being a future leader. "I said one thing very clearly: 'This guy is going to lead us for a long time to come,'" Kohli said, calling on supporters to hail their new captain loudly.

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#WATCH | Virat Kohli praises #RoyalChallengersBengaluru captain Rajat Patidar as RCB ended their 18-year-long wait and won their maiden IPL trophy yesterday after defeating Punjab Kings

"He will lead us for a long time," says Virat Kohli

(Visuals from M Chinnaswamy Stadium in… pic.twitter.com/V1W8GrR5Qg

— ANI (@ANI) June 4, 2025

Also Read: [WATCH] IPL 2025: Massive crowd gather at Vidhana Soudha for RCB

With such words from the heart, Kohli welcomed the man of the hour: "He has won the trophy for us in the first season. Welcome our captain, Rajat Patidar." The crowd went wild once again, signing off on a historic moment not only for RCB but for its history and future.