“Watching Him Cry Was Emotional” – Krunal Pandya Relives Kohli’s Tearful IPL Glory

Aaron McNicholasAaron McNicholas
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At a glance

  • RCB win IPL 2025 title after 18-year wait
  • Krunal Pandya recalls Virat Kohli’s emotional reaction
  • All-rounder highlights fans’ role and his match-winning impact

The long wait finally ended for Royal Challengers Bengaluru and for one man at the heart of it all, Virat Kohli. In the aftermath of their historic IPL 2025 triumph, Krunal Pandya has opened up on a night filled with drama, relief and raw emotion at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

RCB clinched their maiden IPL title with a tense 6-run victory over Punjab Kings, successfully defending 190 and restricting their opponents to 184/7 in 20 overs. The win ended an 18-year wait and sparked unforgettable scenes, with Kohli overcome by emotion at the final whistle. View the full scorecard from that night here.

Kohli’s Tearful IPL Glory Captures the Moment

Krunal, who played a decisive role in the campaign, described the triumph as one of the most emotional moments of his career. Speaking on JioStar’s The Krunal Pandya Experience, he underlined how much the victory meant to Kohli and the loyal supporters.

“The ones who deserved it the most are Virat Kohli and the RCB fans. Virat has been an integral part of RCB from the first season. So, to win it and see him get emotional was special. Watching him cry was an emotional moment for everyone.”

The image of Kohli in tears has already become part of IPL folklore, a powerful symbol of persistence, belief and redemption after years of near misses.

Promise to Fans Finally Delivered

Krunal also spoke about the deep connection between the franchise and its fans, revealing that he had publicly vowed to bring the trophy home during the season.

“The love people have for RCB is incredible. That day, I said on the mic that whatever happens, we must win the trophy for the fans.”

Delivering on that promise made the triumph even more meaningful for the squad.

“I am glad I said it and that we were able to deliver in the final. The fans deserved this trophy more than anybody else, and obviously, Virat as well.”

Krunal’s Impact and Personal Milestone Season

Signed for ₹5.75-crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, the 35-year-old all rounder repaid the faith with a strong campaign. He scored 109 runs and picked up 17 wickets, including match-winning figures of 2/17 in 4 overs in the final, which earned him the Player of the Match award.

On a personal level, he ranked the title among the finest achievements of his career, second only to representing India.

“Playing for the country is number one for me, but winning for RCB after 18 years and having my best season while contributing well has to be one of my top moments.”

Reflecting on his journey, Krunal credited his family for shaping his growth while keeping him grounded.

“I have changed over a period of time, for the better. As you go through the journey, you learn. A lot of credit goes to my parents and the upbringing they gave me. But as a human being, who I am, has remained the same.

“I love cricket, still as excited and passionate to play. I have always been a family man. I love my family, kids, and my wife, who has played an integral part.”

As the new season gathers pace, RCB look determined to build on that breakthrough. With 10 points from 7 matches, the defending champions sit firmly among the front runners. RCB are chasing not just wins but the chance to turn one historic night into a lasting legacy.

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Aaron McNicholas is the editor and a writer for ReadCricket. With several years of experience in sports journalism, he has contributed to organisations including Cricket Ireland, England Handball, Cricket World and Golf Today. A self-described inconsistent, loopy, leg spinner, Aaron has enjoyed far greater success writing about the game than playing it. Today, he specialises in cricket journalism, combining insight with a deep passion for the sport. Away from the keyboard, Aaron is often found behind the lens of a camera, capturing moments in Sport and wildlife photography.

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