Virat Kohli's 18-year quest for an IPL title culminates tonight as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Both teams are vying for their maiden IPL championship, adding to the high stakes of this much-anticipated clash.
RCB's Road to the Final
RCB secured the second spot in the league stage with 9 wins, 4 losses, and one no-result, totaling 19 points. They triumphed over PBKS in Qualifier 1 to book their place in the final. Notably, RCB became the first team to win all away games in a single season.
Under the captaincy of Rajat Patidar, RCB have showcased a balanced performance throughout the season. Virat Kohli leads the batting charts with 614 runs, while Josh Hazlewood tops the bowling with 21 wickets.
PBKS's Journey
PBKS finished the league stage at the top, also with 9 wins, 4 losses, and one no-result, matching RCB's 19 points. After a setback in Qualifier 1 against RCB, they bounced back by defeating Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2, thanks to a stellar unbeaten 87 by captain Shreyas Iyer.
Under the guidance of coach Ricky Ponting and the leadership of Iyer, PBKS have transformed into a formidable unit. Their squad boasts a mix of experienced internationals and promising domestic talents.
Head-to-Head Record
In their 33 IPL encounters, PBKS have a slight edge with 17 wins to RCB's 16. This season, RCB have had the upper hand, defeating PBKS in both the league stage and Qualifier 1.
The Kohli Factor
Virat Kohli, the face of RCB since the league's inception in 2008, has been in sublime form this season. Having already secured two ICC trophies in the past year, an IPL title would be the crowning achievement in his illustrious career. His dedication and performances have been pivotal in RCB's journey to the final.
Match Details
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Date & Time: Tuesday, June 3, 2025, 7:30 PM IST
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Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
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Broadcast: Live on Star Sports; Streaming on JioCinema
As the cricketing world watches with bated breath, tonight's final promises to be a historic encounter. Will RCB finally break their title drought, or will PBKS clinch their first-ever IPL trophy? All eyes will be on Ahmedabad as the drama unfolds.
