Former India player Sunil Gavaskar hailed RCB for their outstanding performance in away games during IPL 2025 and acknowledged the warm reception from fans for their achievements. He also offered condolences to those who were killed in a stampede outside the M Chinnaswamy stadium on June 4.

Gavaskar reflected on the heart-wrenching tragedy, emphasising the unwavering devotion of RCB fans, who experienced immense joy in recent months and finally saw their team secure the IPL title.

“Had RCB won the trophy in the earlier seasons, the emotional outpouring seen after their 18-year wait would not have been as intense. Other teams have won the title, but their celebrations were more subdued, possibly because their fans didn’t have to endure such a long wait. The slogan ‘Ee saala cup naamde’ seemed to weigh heavily on the team. This year, with the slogan scarcely mentioned, they delivered outstanding performances,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid Day.

“They won all the away games, setting a new IPL record. It’s only natural that the home crowd wanted to offer the players a heartfelt tribute. My sincerest condolences go out to those who have lost their loved ones. The power of fans’ prayers can influence fortunes, and it’s clear that the prayers of those lost souls contributed to bringing the elusive Cup to Bengaluru,” he added.

“It’s truly tragic, the loss of lives in the stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium. All those people wanted to catch a glimpse of the players who had given them so much joy, particularly in the last two months. The IPL trophy was finally with them,” he mentioned.

RCB is facing criticism for proceeding with their victory celebrations shortly after their win, The newly-crowned champions will provide a financial assistance of INR 10 lakh to the families of the 11 fans who were killed.

“Their joy was completely understandable, as they wanted to show their heroes just how much they meant to them. They longed to see them up close, maybe even touch them, or grab a quick photo,” Gavaskar concluded.