Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have once again ignited hope among their passionate fanbase, storming into the IPL 2025 final with a dominant eight-wicket victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1.
This marks RCB’s fourth appearance in the IPL final, but the coveted trophy has eluded them in each of their previous three attempts (2009, 2011, and 2016). The question now looms larger than ever: Can RCB finally break their final jinx in 2025?
RCB’s Road to the Final
RCB’s journey to the final has been marked by consistency and flair. Finishing second in the league stage, they matched PBKS on points but trailed only on net run rate.
Their playoff campaign began with a statement win over PBKS, where their bowlers, led by Suyash Sharma (3/17) and Josh Hazlewood (3/21), ripped through the opposition, bundling them out for just 101 in 14.1 overs.
The chase was a formality, with Phil Salt smashing an unbeaten 56 off 27 balls, ensuring RCB reached the target in just 10 overs—the biggest win by balls remaining in IPL playoff history.
What’s Different for RCB in 2025?
- Balanced Squad: RCB’s bowling attack, often criticized in previous seasons, has shown remarkable discipline and penetration. The trio of Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, and Suyash Sharma has delivered breakthroughs at crucial junctures.
- Batting Firepower: Phil Salt’s explosive form at the top, combined with the experience of Virat Kohli and the leadership of Rajat Patidar, has given RCB a formidable batting lineup.
- Momentum and Confidence: RCB’s clinical performances in high-pressure matches, including their playoff win over PBKS, have instilled belief in the squad and fans alike.
RCB History in IPL Final
Despite their impressive run, RCB’s past in IPL finals haunts both the team and its supporters.
Each of their three previous final appearances ended in heartbreak, making them one of the most followed yet trophy-less franchises in IPL history.
The emotional investment is palpable, with fans going viral for their passionate displays, such as the woman holding a sign vowing to divorce her husband if RCB fails to win the title this year.
