RCB Storm into IPL 2025 Final, ABD Reacts
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have scripted one of the most memorable runs in IPL history by securing a direct entry into the final of the 2025 season. The high-octane team performance, led by stars like Phil Salt, Suyash Sharma, and Josh Hazlewood, has captured the imagination of fans once again. However, a unique off-field moment has now caught the limelight — AB de Villiers, one of RCB’s most loved legends, revealed that Virat Kohli has “banned” him from using the iconic phrase “Ee Sala Cup Namde.”
Here’s a deep dive into the latest developments and how RCB is looking stronger than ever heading into the IPL 2025 final.
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1. AB de Villiers: “I’m Not Allowed to Say It Anymore”
AB de Villiers, who has become synonymous with RCB’s identity and legacy, made a surprising statement during a recent interview with ESPNcricinfo. The South African legend revealed that Virat Kohli has asked him not to use the famous phrase “Ee Sala Cup Namde” — a Kannada chant meaning “This year, the cup is ours.”
“I’m not allowed to say the Bengaluru terms because Virat told me I’m not allowed to say that anymore,” de Villiers said with a smile, adding, “But I truly believe we are going all the way this season.”
While the statement was made in good humor, it also signifies RCB’s more focused and grounded approach to this year’s IPL — one game at a time, no unnecessary hype.
2. Why Has the Iconic Phrase Been Banned?
“Ee Sala Cup Namde” has become a symbol of hope and heartbreak for RCB fans. It’s chanted every year with optimism, yet the franchise has never lifted the IPL trophy despite reaching the final in 2009, 2011, and 2016.
Kohli, known for his intensity and seriousness, likely discouraged using the phrase to keep distractions at bay and maintain full focus on the goal. RCB has often been accused of getting caught in the hype, and this move reflects a more professional mindset.
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3. AB de Villiers Believes: “This Time, It’s Different”
Despite the ban on the popular phrase, de Villiers believes that this RCB unit has all it takes to lift the trophy. “The time has come. RCB is going all the way,” he said.
AB highlighted that this season is not about individual brilliance alone. He praised the collective effort of the team, saying:
“What excites me most this season is that multiple players are stepping up. It’s not just the usual Virat Kohli or, back in the day, a Chris Gayle. Now, we see the whole squad responding under pressure.”
This balance and depth could be the key reason why RCB has looked like genuine title contenders throughout the season.
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4. Dominant Win Over Punjab Kings Secures Final Berth
RCB’s qualification to the IPL 2025 final came on the back of a dominant 8-wicket victory over Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1. The match was a one-sided affair from start to finish.
Punjab Kings, who had finished the league stage as table-toppers, collapsed under pressure and managed only 101 runs in 14.1 overs.
RCB Bowling Highlights:
• Josh Hazlewood: 3/21 (Powerplay Wreckage)
• Yash Dayal: 2/26 (Important early breakthroughs)
• Suyash Sharma: 3/17 (Destroyed middle order)
• Bhuvneshwar Kumar: 1/17 (Controlled the flow)
The clinical bowling performance restricted a strong PBKS batting lineup and set the tone for a comfortable chase.
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5. Phil Salt Leads the Charge in Run Chase
RCB chased down the target of 102 with ease in just 10 overs, thanks to a stunning knock from Phil Salt.
• Phil Salt: 56* off 27 balls
(Strike Rate: 207.40)
Salt’s fearless stroke play dismantled the Punjab bowlers and ensured RCB had no hiccups in their journey to the final.
6. PBKS Not Out Yet – Qualifier 2 Awaits
Despite the crushing defeat, Punjab Kings still have a chance to make it to the final. They will now play Qualifier 2 on June 1 in Ahmedabad against the winner of the Eliminator. This will be their last opportunity to set up a rematch with RCB in the final.
For a team that made the playoffs for the first time since 2014, PBKS will be eager to bounce back and capitalize on their second chance.
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7. RCB’s Journey to the Final – A Season of Redemption
RCB’s march to the IPL 2025 final is more than just a string of wins — it’s a narrative of redemption. From being criticized for inconsistent performances early in the tournament to now dominating top sides, their transformation is commendable.
Key Contributors This Season:
• Virat Kohli – Anchoring innings consistently
• Faf du Plessis – Tactical brilliance
• Dinesh Karthik – Finishing games with calmness
• Mohammed Siraj & Hazlewood – New-ball threats
• Suyash Sharma – Spin revelation
8. RCB Fans: Hope Rekindled, But Grounded
RCB fans, while thrilled with their team’s success, are also showing a cautious optimism this year. The decision to avoid the “Ee Sala Cup Namde” chant publicly might be symbolic, but it shows the shift in attitude — from emotional anticipation to quiet confidence.
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9. Title Clash Set for June 3 in Ahmedabad
RCB will now face their ultimate test on June 3 at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The stadium, the world’s largest cricket venue, is expected to be packed with fans from across India, especially RCB loyalists hoping to finally see their team lift the coveted IPL trophy.
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Conclusion: Will 2025 Be the Year RCB’s Wait Finally Ends?
With a balanced squad, match-winners in both departments, and a focused mindset under Kohli’s leadership, RCB looks primed to end their 18-year IPL title drought. Whether they can go all the way remains to be seen, but the signs are more promising than ever.
And while AB de Villiers may no longer say “Ee Sala Cup Namde” out loud, every RCB fan around the world is surely whispering it in their hearts.
