Injustice to RCB fans: DK Shivakumar says IPL final should have been in Bengaluru

Royal Challengers Bengaluru clinched their second consecutive IPL title on Sunday, defeating Gujarat Titans by five wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Powered by a disciplined bowling performance and a fiery half-century from Virat Kohli, RCB successfully chased down 156 to cap memorable season.

Amid celebrations across Karnataka, Chief Minister-designate DK Shivakumar said Bengaluru and RCB fans had been "wronged" by not being chosen to host the final. He alleged that politics played a role in the decision to stage the title decider in Ahmedabad.

'WE HAVE BEEN WRONGED'

Speaking just before the 2nd innings of the match, Shivakumar said the final should have taken place in Bengaluru.

"The RCB match was supposed to be held in Bengaluru. We have been wronged. They have taken it there because of politics. Now I will not say anything more," he said.

The Congress leader, who is set to take oath as Karnataka's chief minister on June 3, said RCB supporters in Bengaluru missed out on what would have been a historic occasion for the city.

He also praised the team's performance and thanked supporters across the state for standing behind the franchise throughout the season.

"The players and team of RCB played well. This year also we had a good game. On behalf of fans of Karnataka, fans of RCB, I would like to thank Karnataka Government for their support," he said.

RCB capped off another successful IPL campaign with a composed run chase after restricting Gujarat Titans with a disciplined bowling performance. Celebrations erupted not only inside the stadium in Ahmedabad but also across Bengaluru, where fans gathered in large numbers to cheer the team's latest achievement.

MESSAGE TO MILLIONS OF FANS

Shivakumar later congratulated the franchise in a post on X, calling the victory a historic moment for Bengaluru.

"Tonight, Bengaluru rises again as champions! RCB has created history by clinching a second consecutive IPL title. With grit, composure, and the heart of true champions, the team has once again made Bengaluru proud."

"Congratulations to the players, coaches, support staff, and millions of fans who stood by the team every step of the way," he added.

It is worth noting that the IPL 2025 final was also held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, despite Gujarat Titans not featuring in the title clash. The final was contested between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings.

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