The stage is all set for the highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 final, where Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) in what promises to be a thrilling showdown. The final is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, June 3, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
RCB secured their spot in the final with an impressive eight-wicket victory over Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 on May 29 in Mullanpur. On the other hand, Punjab Kings bounced back from their defeat and defeated Mumbai Indians (MI) by five wickets in Qualifier 2 on June 1 in Ahmedabad to earn a rematch against RCB in the final.
In their head-to-head encounters, both teams have faced each other 36 times in IPL history, with each team winning 18 matches, making it one of the most evenly matched rivalries in the league. In the 2025 season alone, they have met three times, with RCB holding a 2-1 advantage, including the crucial win in Qualifier 1.
As RCB gears up to clinch their first-ever IPL title, here are three key things they need to focus on to overcome PBKS in the IPL 2025 final:
- Virat Kohli’s Batting Form: RCB will heavily rely on their former captain and star batsman Virat Kohli to lead from the front in their quest for the championship. Kohli has been in sublime form this season, scoring 614 runs in 14 innings at an impressive average of 55.81. His experience and consistency will be crucial for RCB’s success in the final.
- Key Battle: Shreyas Iyer vs Josh Hazlewood: Punjab Kings’ captain Shreyas Iyer has been a standout performer in IPL 2025, scoring 603 runs in 16 matches at an average of 54.81. RCB will look to Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood to challenge Iyer, as he has a good record of dismissing the PBKS skipper. Hazlewood’s early breakthroughs could be pivotal in shifting the momentum in RCB’s favor.
- RCB Pace Trio’s Impact: RCB’s pace trio of Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Yash Dayal have been instrumental for the team this season. With Punjab Kings struggling in the powerplay, RCB’s fast bowlers need to make an early impact with the new ball to put pressure on their opponents. A strong start from the pace trio could set the tone for RCB’s pursuit of their maiden IPL title.
In conclusion, RCB will need to execute their game plan effectively and capitalize on their key strengths to emerge victorious against Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 final. With the stage set for an electrifying clash, cricket fans can expect a thrilling encounter between two evenly matched teams vying for glory.
