Bengaluru: "Ee Saala Cup Namdu!" — Virat Kohli’s thunderous declaration at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday sent a sea of red-and-gold into raptures, as Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrated their historic maiden IPL title with thousands of euphoric fans.
Addressing a jam-packed stadium during the victory celebration, Kohli said, "I don't have much time, we need to wrap this up and show you the trophy, so please let me talk." He then added with a smile, "I'm going to start off by repeating what I said after we won the trophy — it's no more 'Ee Saala Cup Namde', it's 'Ee Saala Cup Namdu'."
The phrase — which had long been a hopeful chant among RCB supporters — has now become a triumphant anthem for a team that finally ended its 18-year wait for an IPL crown.
"This is not just for the players or someone like me who has been here for 18 years," Kohli said, his voice emotional. "This is for all of you — the people of this wonderful city, who have supported RCB through all these years."
The scenes at the stadium were jubilant, with fans waving flags, chanting team slogans and cheering for their heroes as the RCB squad displayed the coveted trophy.
Kohli, who has been the face of the franchise since 2008, was at the centre of the celebrations — a fitting image for a player whose loyalty and passion have defined the spirit of RCB.
