RCB vs PBKS IPL 2025 Final: As the dust settles on a gripping season of the Indian Premier League, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad gears up for a finale that promises legacy-defining consequences. It’s the Punjab Kings versus Royal Challengers Bengaluru — a clash of opposites, a battle of nerves, and a moment that will crown a new IPL champion for only the second time in 15 years.
On one end stands Shreyas Iyer — fiery, expressive, and relentless. His team, Punjab Kings, have been the season’s revelation, a blend of youth, boldness, and resilience. On the other, Rajat Patidar — cool as a cucumber, calculating yet grounded — leading RCB into a final where not just a trophy, but redemption, awaits.
The Captain’s Call: Fire vs Ice
“I will put in everything to see that my team wins,” Iyer declared, breathing fire, reflecting the aggressive brand of cricket Punjab has championed all season. Patidar, meanwhile, was understated: “They’re playing good cricket. It’ll be a challenge.” That calm may be deceptive, but it speaks volumes about the personality RCB have come to rally around this season.
Yet, beyond these contrasting styles, both captains have orchestrated dream runs — Iyer inspiring a group laden with uncapped talent, and Patidar quietly stabilizing a side finally performing with collective purpose.
Momentum, Match-Ups and the Kohli Factor
RCB might walk in with recent dominance over PBKS — winning five of their last six encounters — but Punjab carries momentum. Their thrilling five-wicket win over Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 showed they can hold their nerve under pressure.
But the emotional narrative of the final lies with one man — Virat Kohli.
Eighteen seasons. Three finals. No trophy. If there was ever a script ripe for catharsis, this is it. Kohli, RCB’s eternal heartbeat, is on the cusp of rewriting history. Those close to him say he’s “desirous, not desperate.” But make no mistake — he wants this. RCB want this. And Indian cricket fans, even neutrals, might silently root for a fairytale ending.
Statistically, Kohli loves playing PBKS — averaging 62.5 in his last eight games against them. But finals are played on the day, not paper.
Key Players & Tactical Duels
Punjab’s success has been built on collective over individual. Six uncapped players — including rising stars like Shashank Singh and Harpreet Brar — form their core. Under Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting’s watch, they’ve played fearless cricket. But they face a mighty challenge in Josh Hazlewood, who thrives under pressure and has 12 wickets in just five playoff games.
Iyer himself faces a personal challenge: Hazlewood has dismissed him four times in six innings, conceding just 11 runs in 22 balls. If Iyer survives the early heat, Punjab’s hopes could soar.
For RCB, Phil Salt and Patidar’s form will be crucial, but so will their bowling consistency. Yash Dayal and Suyash Sharma have quietly delivered, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar brings experience to the pace unit.
The Pitch, the Crowd, and the Moment
The centre wicket at Narendra Modi Stadium — the same one used during the March 25 high-scoring thriller — is expected to play true, offering a perfect balance for bat and ball. With over 100,000 fans likely to fill the seats, expect an electric atmosphere.
Punjab won their only game here against RCB. Yet, as history shows, form and familiarity often take a back seat in finals. It’s about the bold, the brave, and the composed.
Team News & Probables
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB): Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Mayank Agarwal, Rajat Patidar (c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Yash Dayal
Unavailable: Tim David (doubtful)
Punjab Kings (PBKS): Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Josh Inglis (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Kyle Jamieson, Arshdeep Singh, Harpreet Brar/Vijaykumar Vyshak
Unavailable: Yuzvendra Chahal (doubtful)
Stats to Watch
Arshdeep Singh: Has gone wicketless in four of his last five games — PBKS will hope for a turnaround.
Rajat Patidar: Started hot, but faded mid-season. Can he peak in the final?
Shreyas Iyer at Ahmedabad: Two unbeaten knocks this season — 97* and 87*. He likes this turf.
Everything. For Kohli, it’s the weight of 18 long seasons. For Iyer, it’s a chance to be the man who led Punjab to their first title. For the franchises, it’s a golden opportunity to break into the elite club of champions.
And for fans, it’s a final worth waiting for. New champions are guaranteed. Legends may be born. And history will be written — one ball, one roar, and one unforgettable night at a time.
When: Tuesday, June 3, 7:30 PM IST
Where: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
Live on: JioCinema (Streaming) | Star Sports Network (TV)
