Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers relive old memories as RCB storm into IPL final

Royal Challengers Bengaluru booked their place in a second straight Indian Premier League final.

With a crushing 92-run win over Gujarat Titans in Dharamshala on Tuesday, delivering a statement performance in a high-stakes playoff clash. While the result underlined RCB’s growing dominance, it was an emotional moment between franchise legends Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers that truly captured fans’ attention after the match.

As celebrations erupted at the HPCA Stadium, Kohli was seen warmly embracing former teammate AB de Villiers near the boundary ropes. The reunion of two of RCB’s most celebrated icons quickly went viral across social media, with fans calling it a full-circle moment in the franchise’s long IPL journey.

De Villiers, who has remained closely associated with RCB even after retirement, was also present during the team’s historic maiden title-winning campaign last season. His presence once again sparked emotional reactions among supporters, many of whom described him as a symbolic figure in Bengaluru’s resurgence.

Kohli and de Villiers formed one of the most destructive batting duos in IPL history during their years together at RCB. Their partnerships produced several unforgettable moments, including the iconic 229-run stand against Gujarat Lions in 2016 and the explosive 215-run partnership against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede in 2015. The post-match hug in Dharamshala brought back memories of those golden years and highlighted the enduring bond between the two stars.

Fans flooded social media with emotional tributes after the match. One supporter wrote that the Kohli-de Villiers story has “seen every emotion possible, from heartbreak to redemption,” while another post hailed the South African legend’s return as a sign of good fortune for the franchise.

On the cricketing front, RCB completely outplayed Gujarat Titans. Captain Rajat Patidar produced a sensational knock of 93 off just 33 balls, leading Bengaluru to a massive 254/4 — the highest total ever recorded in an IPL playoff match. Gujarat never recovered from the early pressure as RCB’s bowlers maintained control throughout the chase.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar and the rest of the bowling attack executed their plans with precision under the Dharamshala lights, ensuring there was no comeback for Gujarat. The dominant all-round display capped off one of RCB’s finest playoff performances in recent memory.

With the victory, Bengaluru moved within touching distance of back-to-back IPL titles. They now have the opportunity to become only the third franchise in tournament history, after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, to successfully defend the championship.