WATCH: Virat Kohli emotionally embraces Ravi Shastri with a warm hug after RCB clinch maiden IPL title

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After nearly two decades of heartbreak and hope, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally lifted their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy, defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by a narrow six-run margin in a pulsating final at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The moment that captured the world’s imagination, however, came not from the scoreboard, but from the heart: Virat Kohli, overwhelmed by the magnitude of the achievement, sprinted across the field and leapt into the arms of Ravi Shastri, his former coach and mentor. This iconic embrace was more than a celebration—it was the culmination of 18 years of relentless pursuit, personal sacrifice, and unwavering belief.

Virat Kohli leaps to hug Ravi Shastri after the IPL 2025 win

Kohli’s journey with RCB has been nothing short of legendary. Joining the franchise as a fresh-faced U19 World Cup winner in 2008, Kohli poured his heart and soul into the team for 18 long seasons. Through highs and lows, near-misses and rebuilding phases, he remained the beating heart of RCB, embodying their hopes and dreams. The 2025 final saw Kohli once again rise to the occasion, anchoring the innings with a vital 43 off 35 balls, guiding RCB to a competitive 190 for 9.

But the story was never just about runs or records. Kohli’s relationship with Shastri, forged during their time together with the Indian national team, added an emotional layer to the night’s celebrations. Shastri, who had seen Kohli’s evolution from a fiery youngster to a global superstar, stood on the sidelines as the final ball was bowled. When victory was sealed, Kohli’s first instinct was to share the moment with the man who had stood by him through thick and thin. Their embrace was a testament to the power of mentorship, camaraderie, and shared dreams—a snapshot that will live on in IPL folklore.

Here’s the video:

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli breaks down in tears as RCB ends 18-year drought to lift IPL trophy

RCB and Kohli’s weight of history and the joy of redemption

For Kohli, this triumph was about more than just a trophy. It was about vindication—proof that persistence, passion, and loyalty do pay off. “This win is as much for the fans as it is for the team. It’s been 18 long years. I’ve given this team my youth, prime, and experience. I’ve tried to win it every season, gave it everything I have. To finally have it is an unbelievable feeling,” Kohli reflected, his voice thick with emotion.

The victory also marked a turning point for RCB’s legion of fans, who had stood by the team through countless disappointments. The scenes of jubilation in the stands, the sea of red and gold, and the tears of joy on Kohli’s face all spoke to the weight of history finally being lifted. The embrace with Shastri symbolized not just a personal milestone, but the collective catharsis of a team and its supporters.

Also READ: IPL 2025 Final Ceremony: Complete List of Award Winners, Prize Money – Who Won Orange Cap, Purple Cap, MVP and Emerging Player?

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