Introduction: The stage is set for an electrifying finale as the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 reaches its crescendo with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) locking horns with Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This isn’t just a match; it’s a battle for redemption, legacy, and the coveted IPL trophy. For RCB, it’s a chance to end a long-standing drought and claim their maiden title, while PBKS aim to rewrite history in only their second-ever final appearance. Buckle up for a night of high-octane cricket as two determined sides vie for glory.
The Build-Up to the Final: RCB, led by the composed Rajat Patidar, have been on a sensational run this season, peaking at the perfect moment. Their emphatic 8-wicket victory over PBKS in Qualifier 1 showcased their intent, with Patidar’s tactical acumen, Phil Salt’s explosive batting, and a disciplined bowling attack stealing the show. This is RCB’s fourth attempt at the IPL title, having stumbled in the finals of 2009, 2011, and 2016—a heartbreak they’re desperate to erase, especially for their talisman, Virat Kohli, whose hunger for an IPL crown remains unquenched.
On the other side, Punjab Kings have defied the odds to reach their first final since 2014. Under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, whose unbeaten 87 in Qualifier 2 was a masterclass in composure, PBKS have shown grit and resilience. With a balanced squad and a burning desire to shed their underdog tag, they’re ready to challenge RCB’s dominance. This clash isn’t just about skill—it’s about belief and the weight of years of unmet expectations.
Head-to-Head Record: Historically, RCB and PBKS are evenly matched, having played 36 encounters with each team securing 18 wins. This parity adds an extra layer of intrigue to the final, as neither side holds a clear psychological edge. Their last meeting in Qualifier 1 saw RCB dominate, but PBKS will be eager to turn the tables when it matters most.
Pitch Report – Narendra Modi Stadium: The Ahmedabad pitch is expected to be a batter’s paradise as the game progresses. With a thin layer of grass and slight early moisture, the surface will likely dry out under the scorching heat, offering true bounce and carry. Stroke-makers will relish the ball coming onto the bat, while bowlers who vary their lengths could exploit the dimensions—square boundaries at 61m and 67m, and a straight boundary at 73m. Spinners may find some grip later, but it’s largely a track favoring high scores.
Weather Forecast for Match Night: As the IPL 2025 final unfolds under the Ahmedabad floodlights, expect warm and humid conditions with temperatures around 29°C, feeling closer to 30°C. The sky will be partly cloudy with a negligible 5% chance of rain, though a brief drizzle remains a faint possibility. Humidity at 58% and a dew point of 22°C could favor the chasing team, while south-southwest winds at 19 km/h (gusting to 41 km/h) add a tactical twist. Visibility will be around 5 km with 43% cloud cover, setting the scene for an unpredictable night.
Predicted Playing XIs:
Punjab Kings: Priyansh Arya, Josh Inglis (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Azmatullah Omarzai, Kyle Jamieson, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal. Impact Sub: Harpreet Brar
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar (c), Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma. Impact Sub: Mayank Agarwal
Key Battles to Watch: The clash between RCB’s explosive opener Phil Salt and PBKS’s lethal pacer Arshdeep Singh could set the tone early. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli’s form against Yuzvendra Chahal’s wily spin will be pivotal in the middle overs. For PBKS, Iyer’s ability to anchor against RCB’s pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood could decide their fate. These individual duels might just tilt the balance in this high-stakes encounter.
Live Streaming and Telecast Details: Fans can catch the RCB vs PBKS IPL 2025 final live from 7:30 PM IST at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The match will be telecast on the Star Sports Network and streamed live on JioCinema, ensuring no one misses this epic showdown.
Conclusion: As the IPL 2025 final looms, both RCB and PBKS carry the hopes of millions. Will RCB finally break their title jinx and honor Kohli’s legacy, or will PBKS seize their moment to etch their name in history? With a batting-friendly pitch, favorable weather, and two evenly matched sides, this promises to be a finale for the ages. Stay tuned as we witness who claims the ultimate prize in T20 cricket’s biggest spectacle.