This victory is 5 levels below Test cricket – Virat’s surprising statement after winning the IPL trophy

Virat Kohli played a crucial innings of 43 runs in the final match of IPL 2025 against Punjab Kings, helping Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) lift their first-ever IPL trophy. The match was held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, and it marked the end of an 18-year-long wait for RCB. Kohli’s composed innings off 35 balls gave RCB a solid foundation, and their bowlers did the rest by holding off Punjab Kings in a close finish.

This victory was one of the most emotional moments in Kohli’s career. Despite being one of the IPL's most consistent and passionate players, Kohli had never lifted the trophy before. Having lost three finals in 2009, 2011, and 2016, this win was long overdue. Kohli, who has played for RCB since the league’s inception in 2008, finally got the reward he had been chasing for 17 seasons. The win was sealed by a narrow six-run margin, with RCB defending their total of 190 runs.

Punjab Kings had their moments in the chase. Their opening duo, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, gave a steady start with a 43-run partnership. Later, Josh Inglis contributed with a quick 39 off 23 balls, while Shashank Singh played a brilliant knock of 61 off just 30 balls. However, RCB’s bowlers held their nerves in the final overs to seal a historic win.

After the match, Kohli opened up about his feelings, expressing just how much this moment meant to him. “This win is not just for the team, but for the fans who have supported us for all these years. I have given my youth, my energy, my heart to this team. Every season, I believed we could win. I never gave up,” Kohli said. His eyes welled up with emotion, showing how much this title meant after years of dedication and heartbreak.

Despite the significance of this IPL victory, Kohli made it clear where his heart lies. He said, “This is one of the best moments of my career, but it is five steps below Test cricket. That’s how much I love and respect Test cricket.”

Kohli recently announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending a remarkable 14-year journey in the longest format. In his Test career, he scored 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85, making him India’s fourth-highest run-scorer. Known for his passion and leadership in Tests, Kohli emphasized the importance of the format for young cricketers.

“To all the youngsters watching—respect Test cricket,” he urged. “If you do well in this format, no matter where you go in the world, people will respect you. They’ll look you in the eye and say, ‘You’ve played the game properly.’ That’s real respect.”

He concluded by saying, “If you want true recognition and respect from the cricket world, give everything to Test cricket. It challenges you in every way, and when you succeed, you gain real pride and admiration from your peers.”

Kohli’s statement reflected his lifelong passion for cricket beyond fame or titles—his desire to be a complete cricketer, respected for playing the game the right way.