In a warm moment of sportsmanship felt around the world, England football captain and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane congratulated Indian cricketing great Virat Kohli after Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lifted their first-ever IPL title. RCB beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 6 runs on June 3, 2025, at the Narendra Modi Stadium, thus ending the franchise's wait for a trophy after 18 seasons. Kane, who himself had only recently lifted his first major club trophy with Bayern Munich, the 2024-25 Bundesliga title, took to Instagram to share a nostalgic tribute post featuring memories from his 2019 meeting with Kohli while Kane was playing in England.

Kane's message read, “One from the archives to say a massive congrats to @virat.kohli and @royalchallengers.bengaluru on their first IPL title! Unreal achievement.” The post, packed with good vibes, was a reminder of these two world-class athletes and their shared respect across the disciplinary divide. Kohli, who has represented RCB as its figurehead since 2008, played a major role in the final match with a score of 43 runs from 35 balls to help RCB finish on a total of 190/9 runs. The bowling brilliance of Krunal Pandya (2/17) and Liam Livingstone's and Jitesh Sharma's contributions helped RCB defend the total.

Kohli’s emotions erupted as he dropped to his knees in tears after the match. “I have given everything to this franchise for 18 years. I never thought this moment would come,” he said, Kohli dedicated the win to RCB’s loyal fans. Overjoyed supporters took to the streets of Bengaluru, and a victory parade was announced to celebrate the historic win.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Harry Kane (@harrykane)

Also Read: Watch: Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar's dance celebration goes viral after RCB's IPL Triumph

A Global Tribute to Kohli’s Triumph 

Kane's emotional tribute to Kohli and the RCB was part of the global acknowledgment of Kohli and the RCB. Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar praised the poetic nature of Kohli, donning jersey number 18, lifting the trophy in IPL’s 18th season. Former PM of the UK Rishi Sunak was at the stadium, supporting RCB, and also got a diplomatic cheer in. This rare sporting crossover between football and cricket beautifully highlighted Kohli’s towering presence and the IPL’s far-reaching influence.