The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has reached its thrilling conclusion, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) set to clash in the final on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Both teams, long in pursuit of their maiden IPL title, have showcased exceptional performances throughout the season, setting the stage for an epic finale.
Road to the Final
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: A Dominant Campaign
RCB, under the leadership of captain Rajat Patidar and coach Andy Flower, finished second in the league stage with nine wins, four losses, and one no-result, amassing 19 points. Their consistent performance earned them a spot in Qualifier 1, where they faced PBKS.
In Qualifier 1, RCB delivered a commanding performance, bowling out PBKS for a mere 101 runs. The chase was clinical, with RCB securing an eight-wicket victory, thus booking their place in the final for the first time since 2016 .
Punjab Kings: Resilience and Redemption
PBKS, led by captain Shreyas Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting, topped the league stage alongside RCB, also with 19 points. Despite their loss to RCB in Qualifier 1, PBKS had another opportunity in Qualifier 2 against Mumbai Indians (MI).
In a high-pressure match, PBKS chased down a formidable target of 204 runs, thanks to Iyer’s unbeaten 87 off 41 balls, leading to a five-wicket victory and securing their second-ever IPL final appearance, the first since 2014.
Key Players and Performances
Royal Challengers Bengaluru
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Virat Kohli: The veteran batsman has been in sublime form, amassing 614 runs this season, making him the team’s leading run-scorer .
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Josh Hazlewood: The Australian pacer has taken 21 wickets, playing a pivotal role in RCB’s bowling attack. His performance will be crucial in the final.
Punjab Kings
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Shreyas Iyer: The captain’s leadership and batting prowess have been instrumental, particularly his match-winning knock in Qualifier 2.
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Nehal Wadhera: The young batsman has provided stability in the middle order, complementing Iyer’s aggressive style.
Historical Context
Both RCB and PBKS have been part of the IPL since its inception in 2008 but have yet to clinch the title. RCB has reached the final three times (2009, 2011, 2016) but fell short on each occasion. PBKS’s only previous final appearance was in 2014, where they lost to Kolkata Knight Riders.
The head-to-head record between the two teams is closely contested, with PBKS holding a slight edge with 17 wins to RCB’s 16 in their 33 encounters.
Anticipation and Predictions
The upcoming final is not just a battle for the title but also a clash of contrasting styles and strategies. RCB’s consistency and depth will be tested against PBKS’s resilience and flair.
Former Australian opener David Warner has expressed his support for RCB, predicting that Josh Hazlewood could be the player of the match if he delivers a five-wicket haul, potentially securing the Purple Cap in the process .
As the IPL 2025 final approaches, fans eagerly await a historic showdown between two teams hungry for their first championship. With star players in form and both squads displaying exceptional cricket, the stage is set for an unforgettable finale.
The match will commence at 7:30 PM IST on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
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