Bengaluru: Star batter Virat Kohli has described Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) second consecutive Indian Premier League (IPL) title as “extra special”, reflecting on the team’s remarkable journey in the 2026 season. His emotional message came days after RCB successfully defended their crown with a commanding five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the final.

The summit clash, held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on May 31, saw RCB etch their name in history by becoming only the third team in IPL history to defend their title, joining the elite list alongside Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians.

Kohli reflects on emotional journey

Taking to social media platform X, Kohli shared a heartfelt post along with a video, highlighting the collective spirit and resilience of the RCB squad throughout the season.

“Started the season with belief. Ended with back to back titles. This team lived every emotion together. The highs, the pressure, the hurdles, and the unwavering support. It feels extra special because… this place is HOME!” Kohli wrote.

His words resonated with fans and teammates alike, underlining the deep bond he shares with the franchise. Kohli, who has been synonymous with RCB since the inception of the IPL, has often spoken about his emotional attachment to the team and its supporters.

Match-winning performance in final

Kohli once again proved his mettle on the big stage with a match-winning unbeaten knock of 75 off 42 deliveries in the final. His innings, which included nine fours and three sixes, anchored the chase and ensured RCB comfortably crossed the target despite a brief late scare from Gujarat Titans.

RCB got off to a strong start with a 62-run opening partnership between Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer. Although Gujarat Titans managed to pull things back by reducing RCB to 132 for 5, Kohli remained composed and guided the team to victory.

Earlier in the match, Gujarat Titans struggled to build momentum after being put in to bat. Washington Sundar top-scored with an unbeaten 50 off 37 balls, while Nishant Sindhu added 20 runs. RCB’s bowlers delivered a disciplined performance, led by Rasikh Dar Salam, who picked up 3 for 27. Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood chipped in with two wickets each, restricting Gujarat to a manageable total.

Consistent season for Kohli

The 2026 IPL season was another prolific one for Kohli, who finished as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament. He amassed 675 runs in 16 innings at an impressive average of 56.25 and a strike rate of 165.84.

Kohli also registered one century and five half-centuries during the season, with his highest score being an unbeaten 105. His consistency at the top of the order played a crucial role in RCB’s successful title defence.

RCB’s place in IPL history

With this victory, RCB have firmly established themselves as one of the dominant teams in recent IPL seasons. Defending a title in a highly competitive tournament like the IPL is no small feat, and RCB’s achievement reflects their depth, balance and strong team culture.

The franchise’s success also highlights the importance of experienced players like Kohli, whose leadership and performances continue to inspire younger teammates.

Conclusion

RCB’s back-to-back IPL titles mark a significant chapter in the franchise’s history, with Virat Kohli at the heart of their success. His emotional reflection underscores not just the triumph on the field, but the deep connection and journey that make the victory truly “extra special”. As the team celebrates this milestone, their achievement will remain a benchmark for consistency and excellence in the IPL.


(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by News Karnataka staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)