'RCB is my team' - Former UK PM Rishi Sunak backs RCB to lift IPL 2025 trophy

Former United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has extended his full support to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the blockbuster IPL 2025 final and lift their maiden cup.

Ahead of the clash, Sunak opened up about his connection with Bengaluru. He revealed that he is married to a Bengaluru-based family. Notably, the 45-year-old tied the knot with Akshata Murty, daughter of Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy, in 2009.  "I'm married into a Bangalore family, so RCB is my team," he told TOI.

The former Prime Minister shared that he was gifted an RCB jersey by his in-laws at the time of his marriage. He also mentioned that he once even cheered for the team while residing at 10 Downing Street, and how last season’s campaign had him on the edge of his seat. "We went to matches a long time ago and I used to cheer them on in Downing Street," he added.

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Sunak named star Indian batter Virat Kohli as his favourite player, calling him a legend of the game. He even revealed owning a signed bat gifted by Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during his tenure, which he considers one of his most prized possessions. Sunak is also banking on RCB’s English firepower.

"It's one of my prized possessions. I'm also hoping for a big contribution from RCB's English contingent, Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone, let's bring it home," he further revealed.

Furthermore, the EX-PM pointed out cricket’s role in diplomatic matters. He recalled his relationship with Australian PM Anthony Albanese and Indian PM Narendra Modi.

"It's been great for the women's game, getting more girls into the sport. But it's also a sign of the influence that India now has in the 21st century. India's passions India's tastes now have a global impact. Prime Minister Albanese and I always had great cricket banter — especially during the Ashes, where at one point it got a tiny bit heated, but all in a friendly way," he laughs. "And Prime Minister Modi and I always had great cricket chat before we got down to business," he concluded.