Virat Kohli has ended an 18-year wait to secure another Indian Premier League (IPL) title, delivering a decisive performance for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final. Kohli remained unbeaten on 75, laying the foundation for his team’s victory. Speaking after the match, he outlined both his personal emotions and his assessment of the team’s overall campaign.
Kohli described the moment as the fulfilment of a long-held ambition. He stated that finishing the match himself by scoring the winning runs had been something he had imagined on numerous occasions over the years. At the same time, he emphasised that the achievement was not solely individual but reflected the collective strength of the squad. According to Kohli, the balance within the team and the ability of different players to contribute match-winning performances throughout the season provided him with the greatest sense of assurance.
Addressing the evolution of his batting approach, Kohli noted that modern Twenty20 cricket is increasingly shaped by very young and aggressive players. He observed that this trend is compelling senior cricketers to refine and adapt their own methods. Although he did not mention any individual by name, reports have suggested that his remarks were indicative of emerging talents such as Vaibhav Suryavanshi. Kohli clarified that his own transformation has not involved major technical changes; rather, it has centred on a shift in mindset, with a greater emphasis on scoring more runs from the outset of an innings.
In his evaluation of the team’s performance, Kohli highlighted a key statistic from the early phase of the tournament. He noted that in the first ten matches, eight different players were awarded the ‘Player of the Match’ honour. This, he said, demonstrates that the side is no longer dependent on a single individual and instead possesses a broader base of contributors.
The relevant figures are summarised below:
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Matches considered | First 10 matches |
| Different ‘Player of the Match’ winners | 8 players |
| Kohli’s final innings | 75* (not out) |
Kohli also singled out the bowling unit for particular praise, stating that their performances have been instrumental in ensuring the team can handle a variety of match situations. He added that in high-pressure fixtures, experienced players are required to assume responsibility, and he credited the team’s success to clearly defined plans that were effectively executed.
Comparing the current campaign with previous seasons, Kohli remarked that the level of pressure was relatively lower this time. He attributed this to improved clarity in strategy and better execution by the players.
In his closing remarks, Kohli acknowledged the role of supporters. He noted that Royal Challengers Bengaluru received strong backing not only at their home venue but also at opposition grounds, where large numbers of fans continued to show support. He described this consistent presence as a significant source of encouragement for the team throughout the tournament.