The IPL 2025 final between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) is poised to deliver a thrilling contest, with both teams seeking their maiden IPL title.
Here is a detailed look at each team’s chances and what could decide the outcome.
Recent Form and Playoff Performance
RCB enters the final with strong momentum, having outclassed PBKS in Qualifier 1 by 8 wickets.
RCB’s bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma, dismantled PBKS for just 101 runs, and Phil Salt’s explosive 56* off 27 balls ensured a rapid chase, finishing the game with 60 balls to spare. This dominant performance highlights RCB’s current form and all-round strength.
PBKS, however, bounced back in Qualifier 2 to secure their spot in the final, showing resilience and depth in their lineup. Their journey to the final has been marked by impressive comebacks and a balanced squad, making them formidable opponents.
RCB vs PBKS: Head-to-Head and Season Record
In IPL history, PBKS holds a slight edge with 18 wins to RCB’s 17 in 35 encounters, reflecting a closely contested rivalry.
This season, both teams finished the league stage with identical records (9 wins, 4 losses, 19 points), underlining their parity.
In their last five meetings, RCB has won four, including the crucial Qualifier 1, while PBKS claimed victory in their most recent league clash.
RCB vs PBKS: Key Players and X-Factors
RCB: Phil Salt’s aggressive starts, Virat Kohli’s consistency, and a potent bowling attack led by Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma have been crucial to their success.
PBKS: The team’s balanced lineup, depth in both batting and bowling, and ability to recover from setbacks make them dangerous, especially if key players like Shikhar Dhawan and Kagiso Rabada fire.
Pitch and Venue Impact
The final will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, known for its true bounce and support for both batters and pacers. The toss could play a role, but both teams have shown adaptability in various conditions this season.
RCB vs PBKS: IPL 2025 Final Prediction
While PBKS has a marginal historical advantage, RCB’s emphatic win in Qualifier 1 and their current form make them slight favorites heading into the final. However, with both teams evenly matched and high stakes, the contest is expected to be closely fought and could go either way.
RCB looks very promising in all departments, although the opening partnership is crucial here.
On the other hand, Punjab Kings have shown very impressive gameplay, and their team looks perfectly balanced…with both teams equally dominant this season, this match could go either way.
