The stage is set for a historic finale in IPL 2025, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) gearing up for a fierce battle at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Both teams are eyeing their first-ever IPL title, promising an unforgettable showdown on June 3.
Clash of Captains: Iyer’s Aggression vs. Patidar’s Composure
Shreyas Iyer, captain of PBKS, and Rajat Patidar, leader of RCB, embody contrasting leadership styles. While Iyer fuels his team with fiery passion and intensity, Patidar prefers a composed and tactical approach. Yet, both have inspired their teams to the grand finale.
Shreyas Iyer set the stage ablaze with his recent spectacular innings, notably an unbeaten 87 against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2. On the other hand, Rajat Patidar has steadily guided RCB with poise, steering the team effectively through challenging phases.
Recent Encounters: Advantage RCB?
In their previous playoff encounter, RCB dominated PBKS, achieving a convincing eight-wicket victory. However, PBKS regained momentum by eliminating Mumbai Indians, setting the stage for a thrilling final. Historically, both teams have won 18 matches each against each other, creating an evenly matched rivalry.
Spotlight on Virat Kohli: Ending the Trophy Wait?
The narrative around Virat Kohli adds extra intrigue to the final. Despite being one of IPL’s most iconic players, the RCB stalwart has never won the trophy. With 614 runs this season, Kohli’s consistent form could be the key to finally breaking his title drought.
Venue & Conditions
- Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
- Date & Time: Tuesday, June 3, 7:30 PM IST
Expect a high-scoring game as the pitch traditionally favours batters. The previous game here saw a cumulative score exceeding 470 runs.
Team Analysis & Key Players
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB):
- Key Batters: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone
- Key Bowlers: Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma
- Injuries: Uncertainty around Tim David’s availability
- Tactical Insight: Kohli’s exceptional recent form against PBKS (average 62.5 from last eight matches) makes him crucial. Hazlewood, a big-match specialist, poses a challenge for Shreyas Iyer.
Probable XII:
Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Mayank Agarwal, Rajat Patidar (c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma
Punjab Kings (PBKS):
- Key Batters: Shreyas Iyer, Josh Inglis, Prabhsimran Singh
- Key Bowlers: Arshdeep Singh, Azmatullah Omarzai
- Injuries: Yuzvendra Chahal’s fitness is uncertain; Harpreet Brar is likely replacement.
- Tactical Insight: Iyer’s outstanding form at this venue (scores of 97* and 87*) makes him a pivotal figure. Punjab’s young openers need to fire to set the foundation.
Probable XII:
Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Josh Inglis (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Kyle Jamieson, Arshdeep Singh, Harpreet Brar/Yuzvendra Chahal, Vijaykumar Vyshak
Interesting Facts & Stats
- Neither team has won the IPL trophy before, making this a historic final.
- Shreyas Iyer struggles against Josh Hazlewood (dismissed 4 times in 6 innings).
- Arshdeep Singh has struggled recently, remaining wicketless in four of his last five games.
Captain’s Corner: What They Said
Shreyas Iyer (PBKS Captain):
“When you step onto the field, it’s war. I’ll put in everything to ensure my team wins.”
Rajat Patidar (RCB Captain):
“I strive to create a positive environment. Every player, whether domestic or international, feels equally valued.”
Final Verdict
With contrasting captaincy styles, star-studded lineups, and high stakes, IPL 2025’s final promises a thrilling contest. Will RCB finally break their jinx? Or will PBKS rise to claim their maiden title? Only time will tell as two deserving teams clash for ultimate glory.