'A Long Journey, But We Have Finally Arrived': RCB's De Villiers Overcomes Tears of Sorrow to Joy

Sports Cricket

Posted by AI on 2025-06-12 10:25:50 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-10 03:13:10

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It was the first match he played for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and he knew right away that he had landed in a special place. Over the years, he would go on to become a part of the RCB family, creating memories, breaking records, and experiencing emotions that he would never forget. This week, AB de Villiers penned an emotional letter in wake of RCB finally ending their 18-year wait for an IPL title, recalling his journey and professing his love for the franchise.

"The first time I walked out at Eden Gardens in 2011, I didn't know what to expect. I had just joined the RCB family and was eager to contribute to the team's success. Little did I know that I would fall in love with the franchise and the city of Bangalore so deeply," De Villiers wrote on Instagram, sharing a lengthy letter, alongside a never-before-seen picture of him posing with the entire RCB squad, all dressed in white, donning solemn faces.

"The franchise, the city, and the fans became a part of me," he added in the heartfelt post captured by IPL broadcasters Star Sports. De Villiers further recalled the "moments of pure joy" and "occasions where our hearts were broken" before reflecting on what he described as the franchise's "dream" coming true.

"Yesterday, we finally did it. Our dream has come true," the letter continued, alluding to RCB's title-clinching victory over the defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by a margin of by a score of 91 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Friday, 29 October. "The timing of this victory was so special. To win the IPL title on the very day we completed 15 years of existence as a franchise is a sign from destiny that RCB is here to stay," the batting stalwart stated.

"The ride has been tough, but we have stuck together as a family and never given up. Believe me, this victory is as much yours as it is ours," De Villiers added, referring to RCB's legion of fans, affectionately known as the 'Orange Army'.

"Thank you for your support, love, and the constant belief you had in us. We are nothing without you," he said, before recounting the memorable moments from the team's victorious final.

"The atmosphere in the camp this year has been special. We all believed from the start that we had a great team and that we could achieve something special," he continued. "We have grown as a family and the joy we experienced yesterday is something I will never forget. We were there for each other every step of the way and that is what shone through in our play throughout the season."

"Congratulations to all the players, the support staff, and the entire RCB family. Thank you so much for believing in me and supporting me over the years," the letter concluded. "Let's celebrate together and make more memories in the years to come. Onwards and upwards, let's do it for Bangalore!"

The emotional tribute resonated with thousands of RCB fans who resonated with De Villiers' long-standing loyalty, dedication, and passion for the franchise despite never having won the title before this season. Many fans also took the opportunity to hail the genius of De Villiers, who has been a key part of RCB's setup ever since joining the team in 2011.

"What a journey this has been AB," wrote one user. "You have been the heart and soul of RCB. Congratulations on this well-deserved victory."

"You deserve this AB. You've been a fantastic player and an even better human being," wrote another. "Congratulations to you and the entire RCB family on this well-earned victory."

"You wrote a letter and choked a million of us who were just so happy for you," wrote another fan. "God bless you AB de Villiers."

Only time will tell if he decides to don the RCB jersey again next season, but until then, let's celebrate a long-overdue triumph.

Go!