- The eighteenth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) dished out some of the most riveting performances from the proven and renowned cricketers from around the world. The marquee league, considered as one of the richest in the entire sporting world, is improving by the year, dishing out mouth-watering stuff to the patrons perpetually. The cricket crazy fans could not have asked for more as the IPL reached the business end and beyond. For the first time in the history of the IPL, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) emerged as the eventual winners, defeating the Punjab Kings by six runs in the finals held at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The excruciatingly painful, long wait ended for RCB after coming close to it a few times earlier.
PC: The Statesman
- As cricket fans closely following the IPL and the fortunes of RCB would vouch in unison, the franchise this time around was determined to ensure they go the distance by choosing the right players at the time of the auction. One of the most impactful decisions made was to hand over the captaincy to Rajat Patidar, who is not only a stylish player in his own right but also a bright leader in the making as well. Patidar not only led the side with great aplomb, showcasing game sense and nuanced understanding, but also marshalled his resources quite splendidly. Even though he was sidelined for some time due to injury, the forced break courtesy of Op Sindoor did a world of good for Patidar, who could resume captaincy responsibilities during the business end.
PC: BBC
- Not forgetting that old warrior who has been chugging along ever since the IPL started. Yes, I am referring to the talismanic Virat Kohli, whose passion, intent, skills, desperation, desire, and single-minded devotion to laying his hands on the elusive IPL cup were always talked about whenever the marquee event was mentioned. Kohli was not only in his elements scoring a handful of runs for the franchise in this edition but also guiding the young team and the captain in the most resourceful ways. By opening the innings, Kohli made sure that he provided a brisk start and anchored the side whenever a new batter came to the crease. Of course, his legendary intent and infectious energy were always on display, goading the team to deliver exceptionally.
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PC: Business Standard
- While any team sport demands every single player to contribute optimally, a couple of players whose outstanding performances stand out in ensuring the RCB lifts the coveted cup for the first time in 18 years. Josh Hazelwood and Krunal Pandya in the bowling department, and Phil Salt and wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma in the batting department were nothing short of spectacular. They delivered whenever it mattered most and at critical junctures. Also, sporadic brilliance from the likes of Romario Shepherd and Bhuvaneshwar Kumar proved critical for the RCB to clinch the cup. A word or two about the tenacity shown by the Punjab Kings will not be construed out of place here. PBKS were equally outstanding, but will have to wait for some time to have the cup.
 won their first-ever Indian Premier League title in the eighteenth edition, defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in the finals at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, ending an 18-year wait for the franchise. The victory was achieved through exceptional leadership by captain Rajat Patidar, stellar performances from Virat Kohli, and outstanding contributions from key players including Josh Hazelwood, Krunal Pandya, Phil Salt, and Jitesh Sharma.){kind=link}