The stage is set for a thrilling climax to the IPL 2025 season as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) face off against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Both teams are vying for their maiden IPL title, adding an extra layer of excitement to this highly anticipated final.
Road to the Final
RCB secured their spot in the final with a commanding eight-wicket victory over PBKS in Qualifier 1. Their bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma, dismantled the PBKS batting lineup, restricting them to a modest total, which RCB chased down with ease.
PBKS, undeterred by their earlier loss, bounced back in Qualifier 2 with a spirited performance against Mumbai Indians. Captain Shreyas Iyer led from the front, scoring an unbeaten 87 to guide his team into their first final since 2014.
Key Players to Watch
- Virat Kohli (RCB): The veteran batsman has been in sublime form, amassing 614 runs this season, including eight half-centuries.
- Josh Hazlewood (RCB): The Australian pacer has taken 21 wickets, proving instrumental in RCB’s journey to the final.
- Shreyas Iyer (PBKS): Leading PBKS with distinction, Iyer’s leadership and batting prowess have been pivotal, especially his match-winning knock in Qualifier 2.
Match Conditions
The pitch at Narendra Modi Stadium is expected to favor batsmen, suggesting a high-scoring encounter. However, weather forecasts indicate a 50-61% chance of rain, which could impact the match proceedings.
Historical Context
RCB is making their fourth appearance in an IPL final, having previously finished as runners-up in 2009, 2011, and 2016. PBKS, on the other hand, are in their first final in over a decade, aiming to clinch their inaugural title.
Where to Watch
Fans can catch the live action on Star Sports or stream it via JioCinema and Hotstar.
As anticipation builds, cricket enthusiasts worldwide await to see who will emerge victorious and etch their name in IPL history.
