Follow UsRoyal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally won their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title on June 3, 2025, after defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs. Their Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, called it “one of the most anticipated trophies in the sports world” during his address to the team in the dressing room.
However, as the saying goes, ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’, and hence, a lot of hard work and perseverance went behind the scenes to help the players achieve the dream for the franchise and its fans. Amidst all the overwhelming emotions of the win, RCB’s biggest icon, Virat Kohli, didn’t forget to highlight the contributions of those who were working behind the scenes.
"So, in the middle of all the emotions, we shouldn't forget that each individual here has had their own journey, has worked hard, and struggled a lot to reach here,” Kohli told the broadcasters after RCB’s historic win.
“Like take Mani Kaaka [team masseuse]—he has been with our team from the very first day, and also with the Indian team. He’s been with NCA and here for 17 years. Basu Sir [trainer] has also been here for 17 years. People often don’t recognise that. Others have also faced a lot of struggles in life, and their family members worry for them just as much as mine do for me.”
Kohli also said that the win is as big for everyone in the team as it is for him, as everyone did their job and contributed to the team’s success in their own ways.
“For them too, this is just as big a win as it is for me,” Kohli added.
“Everyone wanted me to win the trophy, to lift the cup. I've faced many heartbreaks. But for the boys who have reached this level for the first time, or have reached here after a long struggle, this is such a huge motivation, such a big victory.
“It’s very important to understand that. These guys have created history for RCB, and when they look back on their journey, they’ll feel the same emotions. Those moments might not be captured on camera, but that doesn’t make them any less real. It’s 100 percent as important and as big a win for them as it is for me. And I’ve said the same thing to the entire management."