KKN Gurugram Desk | June 3, 2025, will be remembered as one of the most iconic dates in IPL history. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), a franchise that had come close multiple times but never clinched the trophy, finally lifted the IPL title for the first time in 18 years. The venue, Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, turned into a festive cauldron with fireworks, cheers, and emotional moments that defined the culmination of a long wait.
Among those most moved by the moment was Virat Kohli, the face of the franchise for over a decade. Though not RCB’s captain this season, Kohli’s on-field performance and emotional leadership played a crucial role in the team’s title-winning campaign. After the final whistle, Kohli broke down in tears, embracing his wife Anushka Sharma in a heartfelt moment that resonated with millions of fans across the globe.
RCB’s First-Ever IPL Trophy: A Dream Realized
RCB defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 6 runs in a thrilling final to claim their first IPL title. The win not only ended an 18-year drought but also marked a crowning moment for Kohli, who has devoted his youth and peak career years to the franchise.
“This victory is not just for the fans. It’s for every teammate who ever believed in this team. We waited 18 years for this moment, and today it feels surreal,” said Kohli after the win.
Virat Kohli Opens Up on Test Cricket Retirement
During the post-match interaction, the 36-year-old former India captain was asked about his recent decision to retire from Test cricket, which he announced on May 12, 2025. For the first time since that announcement, Kohli publicly addressed the emotional weight of that decision.
“Test cricket has always been five levels above everything else. It’s the format I loved the most and respected deeply. It shaped me not just as a cricketer but as a person,” Kohli said.
The former Test skipper emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of red-ball cricket and encouraged upcoming players to respect and prioritize it.
“Even now, I urge the younger generation to give Test cricket the respect it deserves. Performing in Tests earns you respect worldwide. It’s a true test of character,” he added.
Virat Kohli’s Test Career: A Legendary Chapter
Despite still being in peak physical condition, Kohli chose to bow out of Test cricket while on a high note. His record in the format is exceptional and places him among the greatest Indian players in history.
Kohli’s Test Career Stats:
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Matches Played: 123
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Total Runs: 9,230
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Batting Average: 46.85
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Centuries: 30
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Half-Centuries: 31
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Double Centuries: 7
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Test Captaincy Record: 68 matches – 40 wins
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India’s Most Successful Test Captain
Kohli’s leadership transformed India into a formidable Test side, especially in overseas conditions. His fierce competitiveness, fitness regime, and vision helped shape a new generation of Indian cricketers.
Why Kohli’s Words Matter for Indian Cricket’s Future
Kohli’s remarks come at a crucial juncture when T20 cricket dominates global calendars, and players are increasingly opting out of the longer format. By reaffirming his love for Tests, Kohli sent a message that legacy, endurance, and honor still have a place in modern cricket.
“The dignity of playing 5-day cricket and succeeding in it is unmatched. You earn not just runs but respect,” Kohli stated firmly.
His statement is being hailed by cricket purists as a much-needed endorsement of the traditional format.
The Emotional Outburst: Why Virat Kohli Cried
Kohli has always been known for his passion and intensity on the field, but rarely has he been seen crying publicly. The moment was overwhelming not just because of the trophy but because of what it symbolized — years of criticism, close losses, missed opportunities, and unwavering commitment.
“This win is the result of years of belief, frustration, heartbreak, and resilience,” Kohli said, visibly emotional.
His tears, his embrace with Anushka, and the thunderous applause from the Ahmedabad crowd captured the human side of cricket — one that statistics can’t fully reflect.
Kohli’s Role in IPL 2025: A Veteran’s Influence
Even though Rajat Patidar led RCB this season, Kohli remained a pillar of stability in the team. His batting performance, guidance to younger players, and calm demeanor in crunch moments proved vital.
In the IPL 2025 final:
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Kohli scored 43 runs off 35 balls, providing the stability needed in a high-pressure game.
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His presence in the dugout and on the field was pivotal in motivating the squad, especially during tight chases and fielding challenges.
Tributes Pour In: Cricket World Reacts
Several former cricketers and analysts lauded Kohli for his contribution to Indian and franchise cricket.
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Sachin Tendulkar:
“Kohli’s Test records speak for themselves. His retirement is a big moment for Indian cricket.”
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Rahul Dravid:
“He carried forward the values of Test cricket with pride. His influence will be felt for generations.”
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AB de Villiers:
“So proud of my friend. What a journey with RCB. The tears, the emotions — this was his destiny.”
Comparative Insight: Kohli vs Other Indian Test Captains
| Captain | Matches | Wins | Win % | Home Wins | Away Wins |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | 68 | 40 | 58.8% | 24 | 16 |
| MS Dhoni | 60 | 27 | 45.0% | 21 | 6 |
| Sourav Ganguly | 49 | 21 | 42.9% | 10 | 11 |
| Rahul Dravid | 25 | 8 | 32.0% | 5 | 3 |
Kohli’s record as a Test captain remains unparalleled, especially in away conditions, a frontier where India had long struggled before his era.
Legacy Beyond Numbers: What Kohli Leaves Behind
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A generation of players who idolized his aggression and work ethic.
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An Indian team culture built on fitness, intensity, and never backing down.
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A message that sport is not just about winning, but about evolving.
Kohli’s Test exit might signal the end of an era, but his philosophy will continue to influence Indian cricket’s DNA for years to come.
The IPL 2025 final was not just about a trophy — it was a full-circle moment for Virat Kohli, the man who gave his heart and soul to RCB and Indian cricket. His emotional response, combined with a graceful message on the value of Test cricket, reminded fans what makes him one of the most iconic cricketers of all time.
As Kohli transitions into the final chapters of his playing career, possibly focusing on limited-overs cricket and mentoring roles, his legend only continues to grow.
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