Our Bureau
Ahmedabad
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have finally ended the 18-year curse and won their first title in the 18th season of the Indian Premier League. RCB led by Rajat Patidar defeated the Punjab Kings on 3rd June and clinched their first finals in what turned out to be a thrilling contest. Virat Kohli who waited 18 years for this moment was seen weeping like a child in the final moments of the match.
As the scenes unfolded, the camera caught one of the most beautiful moments of the season as Virat Kohli, like a kid, leaped into his former coach Ravi Shastri’s arms. The moment melted the hearts of many fans as they saw their favorite player let his emotions out in front of the world and hugging Shastri tightly. The two seemed to rake in the moment and shared a warm hug as Shastri congratulated him on finally getting the trophy that long escaped his grasp.
Another moment which touched every fan’s heart was the one between Kohli and his spouse Anushka Sharma. The Bollywood actress has been through thick and thin with her husband for many seasons and finally when he achieved the feat that long awaited him. Kohli and Anushka shared a warm hug after the match as the cricketer let his emotions sink in.
Kohli has been a legendary batter for the RCB and has stayed loyal with the franchise over the years after the numerous disappointments he faced. He is the highest run scorer in the history of the league and is the only batsman to cross the 9000 mark. He also has the most centuries in the history of the tournament. IPL Trophy was the only thing that he needed to complete his trophy cabinet and this year he has finally achieved his dream.
Krunal Pandya was awarded the Man of the Match award for his unreal performance in the final. The left-arm off-spinner ended the match with the figures of 2 wickets for just 17 with the economy of 4.20. Pandya bowled 12 dot balls in his quota of 4 overs and clamped the Kings’ batsmen barring them to score freely in the middle overs and sealed the match.
