The stage is set for the grand finale of IPL 2025 on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) await their challenger.
After a commanding victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1, RCB have secured their place in the final, but the opponent will be decided through the upcoming Qualifier 2 match on June 1.
The contenders for this final spot are Mumbai Indians (MI), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Gujarat Titans (GT), each bringing unique strengths and playoff credentials.
RCB’s Journey So Far
RCB booked their final berth with a strong performance against PBKS in Qualifier 1 at the new PCA Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh.
This marks RCB’s fourth appearance in an IPL final, having previously finished runners-up in 2009, 2011, and 2016.
Despite their past heartbreaks, RCB look determined to clinch their maiden IPL title this season, buoyed by key performances from Virat Kohli and the return of Josh Hazlewood for the playoffs.
The Road to Qualifier 2: MI, PBKS, and GT Battle for the Final Spot
Qualifier 2 will feature Punjab Kings facing the winner of the Eliminator match between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans. The winner of this clash will take on RCB in the IPL 2025 final.
Mumbai Indians (MI)
- Current Form: MI qualified for the playoffs as the fourth-placed team with 16 points from 14 matches.
- Strengths: The five-time champions rely heavily on their experienced batting core, led by Suryakumar Yadav, and a potent bowling attack featuring Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult.
- Challenge: MI face a tough challenge against Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator, where their bowling will be tested against GT’s strong batting lineup.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
- Current Form: PBKS finished the league stage with 15 points and have already lost Qualifier 1 to RCB.
- Strengths: PBKS have shown resilience and depth, with key players like Arshdeep Singh and Josh Inglis stepping up in crucial moments.
- Path to Final: PBKS must win Qualifier 2 against the Eliminator winner to reach the final. Their recent dominant win over MI has boosted their confidence, especially after successfully chasing targets and restricting strong batting lineups.
Gujarat Titans (GT)
- Current Form: GT finished third in the points table with 18 points from 14 matches.
- Strengths: Led by Shubman Gill, GT boasts a balanced team with strong batting and bowling units, including Prasidh Krishna and Mohammed Siraj.
- Playoff Experience: GT have already reached two IPL finals since their debut in 2022, making them a formidable contender in high-pressure matches.
- Eliminator Match: GT face MI in the Eliminator, with the winner advancing to Qualifier 2 against PBKS.
Key Matchups and Predictions
- MI vs GT (Eliminator): This match is expected to be a thrilling contest, with MI’s experienced bowling attack facing GT’s dynamic batting lineup. The duel between Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill will be crucial, while bowling battles between Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna could decide the outcome.
- Qualifier 2 (PBKS vs MI/GT): PBKS will look to leverage their recent form and home advantage to overcome the Eliminator winner. Their bowling unit, including Arshdeep Singh and Harpreet Brar, will be key to restricting the opposition.
- Final Showdown: RCB, having had extra rest after Qualifier 1, will be fresh and ready to take on the winner of Qualifier 2. With Virat Kohli in fine form and the bowling lineup strengthened by Josh Hazlewood’s return, RCB are favorites to finally claim their first IPL title.
