India, June 1 -- Royal Challengers Bengaluru waited 18 years to win their first IPL title. Twelve months later, they etched their names deeper into history with a second crown, becoming only the third franchise to successfully defend the trophy.

RCB were the most complete side in the tournament, displaying their dominance throughout the season, and they reinforced that reputation on Sunday night at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with a five-wicket win over the Gujarat Titans.

At the centre of it all stood the man who had seen every high and low. The man who remained loyal to the franchise that picked him in 2008 despite years of criticism during trophyless campaigns, a failed captaincy tenure and, at times, lucrative offers from...