The IPL 2025 final is set to deliver a historic showdown as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) face off, each hoping to lift their maiden IPL trophy.
While fans eagerly anticipate the on-field fireworks at the Narendra Modi Stadium, there’s more to this clash than meets the eye.
Behind the star-studded lineups and dramatic playoff runs, both teams have fascinating stories, unique records, and offbeat moments that have shaped their journey to the summit.
Here are five things you probably didn’t know about the IPL 2025 finalists, RCB and PBKS.
1. Both Teams Finished the League Stage with Identical Records
RCB and PBKS each secured nine wins, four losses, and one no-result from their 14 league matches.
Their net run rates were nearly identical, reflecting just how evenly matched these sides have been throughout the season.
This statistical parity set the stage for a tightly contested playoff phase and a fitting final showdown.
2. Shreyas Iyer Sets a Unique IPL Captaincy Record
PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer has become the first player to captain three different franchises in IPL finals.
Previously, he led Delhi Capitals in 2020 and Kolkata Knight Riders to the title in 2024. Now, he’s at the helm for Punjab Kings in their second-ever final, underlining his growing legacy as a leader in the league.
3. RCB’s Fourth Final Appearance
This is RCB’s fourth appearance in an IPL final (after 2009, 2011, and 2016), but they have never won the trophy.
The 2025 campaign has seen a more balanced RCB squad, with Virat Kohli leading the run charts and new additions like Phil Salt and Rajat Patidar providing crucial support.
Their journey has been marked by resilience, with a dominant win over PBKS in Qualifier 1.
4. Punjab Kings’ Playoff Rarity and Dramatic Comeback
PBKS are in just their second IPL final, their first since 2014. Remarkably, 2014 was also the only other time they qualified for the playoffs since the knockout format was introduced.
Their run this year included a stunning chase of 204 against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2, powered by Shreyas Iyer’s unbeaten 87, highlighting their ability to bounce back under pressure.
5. Off-Field Drama
The IPL 2025 final has also featured off-field intrigue, with RJ Mahvash gaining attention for her accurate prediction that RCB and PBKS would reach the final.
Adding to the buzz, Mahvash is rumored to be dating PBKS player Yuzvendra Chahal, and her social media posts have become a talking point among fans and the cricket fraternity.
