Virat Kohli delivered a match-winning unbeaten 75 from just 25 balls as Royal Challengers Bengaluru defended their IPL title with a five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. Kohli's fastest IPL half-century featured nine fours and three sixes, steering RCB to their target of 156 with 12 balls remaining alongside crucial knocks from Venkatesh Iyer (62) and Tim David (41).

RCB's bowling attack set up the platform for victory, with Rasikh Salam (3-27), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2-29) and Josh Hazlewood (2-37) dismantling Gujarat Titans' batting lineup. Openers Shubman Gill (10) and Sai Sudharsan (12) fell inside four overs, while Jos Buttler's 19 came before he was stumped. Washington Sundar's unbeaten 50 off 37 balls provided late resistance, but Rashid Khan's two wickets weren't enough to halt RCB's chase.

The win makes Royal Challengers Bengaluru only the third franchise in IPL history to successfully retain their title, joining Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians in this exclusive club. This achievement validates Kohli's leadership and the team's consistent performances throughout the tournament.

Speaking after the match, Kohli emphasized his team's belief in their abilities, stating they knew they were the best side. His confidence reflected RCB's dominant campaign, finishing top of the league table before delivering when it mattered most.