India, June 4 -- Outclassed in 2011, falling agonisingly short by six runs in 2009, losing by eight runs in 2016, 2025 was finally their time. In front of a 91,419-strong crowd in Ahmedabad, predominantly supporting their franchise, Royal Challengers Bengaluru pulled off a thrifty bowling performance to successfully defend 190 and end a 17-year wait for an Indian Premier League (IPL) title.

Much like English football fans stay wedded to the catchphrase "It's coming home" in the hope of a Cup win, RCB supporters have had "Ee Sala Cup Namade" as their battle cry, which was finally answered on Tuesday night against Punjab Kings.

No longer will Virat Kohli remain a king without the crown. He was shedding tears of joy by the time Josh Hazlew...