After 17 long years, Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally won their first IPL trophy, and Mo Bobat, the Director of Cricket, wants this to be just the start. Right after RCB squeezed out a six-run win against Punjab Kings in a nail-biting final in Ahmedabad, Bobat gave an energetic talk in the locker room. He urged his players to chase that winning feeling and aim to defend their title in 2026.

“I want you to get hooked on this winning feeling. This is just the beginning. Not many teams have won IPL titles back-to-back—it’s only happened twice before. Next year, we’re headed for a final in Bangalore, and we’re going for it again. Enjoy this feeling tonight. It’s this drive to win and share amazing moments that keeps us going,” Bobat said in a speech shared by RCB on social media.

RCB had been in three IPL finals before—in 2009, 2011, and 2016—but finally won in 2025. Led by Rajat Patidar, the team scored 191 in the final and held on as Punjab came up just short. This win was especially important for Virat Kohli, who has been with the franchise since the league started in 2008. During his speech, Bobat recognized Kohli’s loyalty and hard work over the years.

“This is one of the most awaited trophies in sports. When we think about our fans and what Virat has been through, it hits home how big this is. The way we played this season was something special. We fought hard in games and brought a unique aggression to our style of cricket. The team’s spirit and culture really helped us win,” Bobat noted.

RCB won all seven of their away games in the league and followed it up with wins in both the Qualifier and the final. Although the season had to pause due to military tensions between India and Pakistan, the team regrouped and came back stronger.

“Everyone chipped in. Those away wins were a big deal—something other teams haven’t done. Think about the challenges we faced, like when everyone went home. We bounced back and came together again despite injuries and setbacks. In the future, whether it’s tomorrow or years from now, when you see someone from this room, you’ll remember sharing this season together. That’s the best part. That’s what sports and winning trophies are all about,” he wrapped up.