The Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to crown a new champion as two long-suffering franchises, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), lock horns in the highly anticipated IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Both teams carry the weight of years of anticipation, with neither having lifted the coveted trophy since the league’s inception in 2008.
For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, this marks their fourth appearance in an IPL final, having previously fallen short in 2009, 2011, and 2016. Their passionate fanbase, often dubbed “Ee Saala Cup Namde” (This Year, Cup is Ours), has endured heartbreak after heartbreak. Under the new captaincy of Rajat Patidar, and with the consistent brilliance of Virat Kohli and Phil Salt at the top, RCB have shown a renewed vigor in IPL 2025, topping their qualifier against Punjab Kings in dominant fashion.
Punjab Kings, on the other hand, are making only their second appearance in an IPL final. Their sole previous final outing was in 2014, where they were defeated by the Kolkata Knight Riders. This season, led by Shreyas Iyer, who is gunning for a second consecutive IPL title after leading KKR to glory in 2024, PBKS have displayed immense resilience. After a tough loss in Qualifier 1 to RCB, they staged a remarkable comeback in Qualifier 2, overcoming a formidable Mumbai Indians side.
The head-to-head record between these two teams in the IPL is perfectly balanced, with 18 wins each in 36 encounters. However, RCB will draw confidence from their recent victory over PBKS in Qualifier 1.
Key Players to Watch:
For RCB, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Virat Kohli, whose consistent run-scoring has been the backbone of their batting. Phil Salt at the top has provided explosive starts, while captain Rajat Patidar has also contributed significantly with crucial innings. In the bowling department, Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal will be vital in containing the strong PBKS batting lineup.
Punjab Kings will be banking on their captain Shreyas Iyer to lead from the front with the bat, especially after his impactful performance in Qualifier 2. Prabhsimran Singh and Josh Inglis will be key at the top of the order. With the ball, Arshdeep Singh will spearhead the pace attack, while the veteran leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal (if fully fit) will be a crucial factor in the middle overs.
As the cricketing world holds its breath, one thing is certain: a new champion will be crowned tonight. Both RCB and PBKS have battled through the challenges of the season, and their respective journeys to the final have been marked by grit, determination, and stellar individual performances. The stage is set for a historic encounter, promising an exhilarating conclusion to IPL 2025.
