…then spinners could come into play later in the match due to potential moisture and a slower surface, though the Narendra Modi Stadium traditionally offers a flat batting deck conducive to high-scoring encounters. Teams might prefer to bowl first, especially given both RCB and PBKS have thrived while chasing.
That said, rain interruptions could have a significant strategic impact—particularly on a final this big. The IPL rules stipulate that a minimum of 5 overs per side is necessary for a result to be declared. If that doesn’t happen, a Super Over will decide the winner. If even that isn’t possible, the team that finished higher on the points table will be declared champions—which, in this case, favors RCB, who secured a top-two finish.
Here’s what’s at stake in this historic final:
For RCB:
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A chance to finally lift the IPL trophy after 17 years of heartbreak.
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A dream farewell season for Virat Kohli, who has retired from all international formats and might be playing his last IPL season.
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Redemption for a franchise often ridiculed for failing to capitalize on golden generations.
For PBKS:
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Their first IPL title as well, in what would mark a massive turnaround under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer.
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A unique validation for Iyer, proving he can lead, build, and dominate with completely different squads.
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Recognition for a squad that defied norms with a team built around versatility and depth, rather than star power.
X-Factors to Watch:
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Virat Kohli’s hunger, especially in a potential last hurrah.
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Shreyas Iyer’s tactical genius in a knockout.
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Weather interruptions, which might bring in DLS chaos or even a Super Over thriller.
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The middle-over battles, particularly RCB’s seamers vs PBKS’s all-rounders.
No matter the result, this final already feels like a storybook ending to one of the most emotionally charged IPL seasons ever—featuring global events, retirements, breakthroughs, and reinventions.
As the world watches, perhaps for one final time, No. 18 might rise—or a new legacy might begin under Iyer’s resolute leadership.
Either way, this June 3 showdown at Ahmedabad promises to be one for the ages.
