India, June 4 -- In a night of tears, fireworks, and long-awaited glory, Royal Challengers Bangalore finally lifted their maiden IPL trophy-ending an 18-year drought-and no one wore the moment more emotionally than Virat Kohli. RCB edged past Punjab Kings by six runs in a gripping final, and as the last ball was bowled, Kohli dropped to his knees, eyes filled with tears, overwhelmed by a dream finally realized.

"This is right up there," said Kohli, clutching the trophy. "I've given everything I had for the last 18 years. I've stayed loyal to this team, no matter what. I've had moments where I thought otherwise, but I stuck to this team. They stood behind me and I stood behind them. I always dreamt of winning it with them, and this is far...