• Home
  • Who Said What
  • People Often Criticised Rajiv Shukla Slams Kohlis Critics As Rcb Legend Claims Ipl Glory

“People often criticised..”: Rajiv Shukla Slams Kohli's Critics As RCB Legend Claims IPL Glory

Kaushik Kashyap

Rajiv Shukla with Virat Kohli. [Source - DoctorLFC/Hardcricketpix/x.com]Rajiv Shukla with Virat Kohli. [Source - DoctorLFC/Hardcricketpix/x.com]

After 18 long years of heartbreak, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have finally claimed the coveted Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy. They beat the Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 Final in Ahmedabad to achieve their maiden silverware.

For millions of fans around the world, it was a moment of pure joy, but for one man in particular, Virat Kohli, it was the result of a relentless journey for almost two decades. Kohli, the heart and soul of RCB, had carried the weight of countless expectations, going through years of mockery and near-misses.

But in the end, his determination and consistency paid off as he finally got his hands on the IPL trophy. This IPL glory was symbolic of his entire career, full of passion, grit, and unmatched dedication to one franchise.

BCCI Vice President Stands Strong with Kohli After IPL Victory

After RCB pulled off their most historic moment, BCCI Vice President Rajiv Shukla was quick to praise Kohli for his unwavering commitment and slammed the cricketer’s critics in an interview with India Today.

Shukla emphasized that Kohli’s contribution to Indian cricket and the IPL could never be understated, and those who doubted him were now silenced.

“See, to me, it feels like, amongst those who have played the IPL over the last 18 years, Virat has been the constant. And he tried many times to make RCB champions. People often criticised him, saying things like 'he is not a good captain,' 'he is not right for an IPL team',” Shukla said.

Kohli the Driving Force Behind RCB’s Global Fanbase

Shukla further highlighted Kohli's monumental role in building RCB's massive fanbase, crediting him as the sole reason for the franchise's widespread popularity around the country.

“Whatever the case may be, it’s because of Virat that RCB has such a big fan base and popularity. People around the world follow this team because of him. No matter where a match is played, if Virat’s team is playing, it will be known by his name,” Shukla added.

At the age of 36, Virat Kohli continues to be the backbone of RCB, showcasing his mastery in the T20 format. Even in the twilight period of his career, he adapted to the demands of modern cricket, amassing another over 600 runs this season with an impressive average of 54.75 and a strike rate of 144.71.

Kohli’s dedication was finally rewarded when RCB triumphed over Punjab Kings by 6 runs. Captain Rajat Patidar and his men finally fulfilled the long-held dream of Kohli and RCB fans worldwide, securing the elusive IPL trophy.