Virat Kohli and Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally put an end to an expectation of 18 years as they won their first title of the Indian Premier (IPL), beating the Kings of Punjab by six points in a biting final at the Narendra Moda stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. But while the celebration on the field was great, it was the scene of the post-match locker room that really captured the emotion, the unity and the spirit of a team that had fought so long for this moment.Go beyond the border with our YouTube channel. Subscribe now!After the 43 out of 35 of Kohli set the tone for a total of 190 points, RCB held its nerve to refuse Punjab in the final, which caused wild celebrations among the 91,000 fans present. But once inside the locker room, the director of Cricket Mo Bobat delivered a moving speech that summed up the extent of the victory.Who is this IPL player?“Everyone in this room, Bravo. We should be incredibly proud of what we have accomplished. This is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated trophies in world sport,” said Bobat, recognizing not only players, but the whole support staff, coaches and analysts in the logistics team.WATCH:Thinking about the loyalty and sacrifices of Kohli over almost two decades, Bobat distinguished him: “I know that you do not like to be distinguished, Virat, but thank you for everything. You deserve it more than anyone.”Bobat praised Captain Rajat Patidar, the team’s unshakable self-confidence and the adaptability displayed during mid-season disturbances. He also praised unknown heroes like Phil Salt and Josh Hazlewood for their commitment despite tight schedules and personal sacrifices.Encouraging the team to take advantage of the moment, Bobat urged them to “become addicted to this feeling” and to look to the future: “Next year, we will have a final in Bengaluru – and we leave.”
While the RCB is preparing to return to Bengaluru for a large parade, the echoes of this triumph – in the stands, the streets and, above all, in the locker room – are sure to resonate for the years to come.
