The IPL 2025 final became one of the most exciting and emotionally charged matches in the history of the Indian Premier League. The last face-off between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBK), held at the prestigious Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, was not just a game-this was a fight for heritage, redemption and glory. Neither team had won the first title, causing the stakes to raise unimaginably.
In this broader blog, we need to know about the final of IPL 2025 final, from the team’s journey, what is the final meaning for the future of the team, major data, turning points, fan reactions and both franchisees.
The Road to the IPL 2025 Final
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)
RCB, led by Ever-Futile FAF du Plessis, was a team that was both consistent and strategic. With the impressive performance of Glenn Maxwell, Mohammad Sirj and young sensation Rajat Patidar, with players like Virat Kohli, RCB managed to keep his speed stable throughout the season.
He finished second at the table and the finals came in the final after a concrete victory in the Qualifier 1 against Rajasthan Royals. Hunger was visible, the passion was undisputed, and the mission was simple – to broadcast the IPL Trophy for Bangalore for the first time.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
The PBKS, which was often dubbed to the IPL underwriters, wrote a story of flexibility in 2025. Under the leadership of Shikhar Dhawan, he had a strong mixture of youth and experience. PBK emerged as dark horses, PBKs in major matches with Johnny Bairstow, Liam Livingstone, Arshdeep Singh and Rahul Char.
Despite finishing third, he defeated Mumbai Indians in Eliminator and then won a surprising victory against Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2. His entry into the IPL 2025 final was not a flower – it was earned.
The Build-Up: Hype Before the Epic Clash
The cricket world was Abuz in the days going to the IPL 2025 final. Fans were divided, famous celebrities supported their teams, and were filled with social media predictions. The fact is that both teams never won the IPL title, which involves emotional weight and curiosity in the competition.
A sea of red and gold was seen at the stadium in Ahmedabad, as fans from both cities testified what a great match would be in IPL history.
Toss and Team Strategies
Shikhar Dhawan won the toss and chose to bat first citing pressure to chase in a final. The pitch looked flat and perfect for batting under the light. Both teams went with unchanged XIS, clinging to combinations that served them well in the playoffs.
XI playing PBKS: Shikhar Dhawan (C), Johnny Bairstow, Prabhasimran Singh, Liam Livingstone, Jitesh Sharma, Sam Curan, Harpreet Brar, Rahul Char, Kagiso Rabda, Arshdeep Singh, Rishi Dhawan
RCB Playing XI: FAF Du Plessis (C), Virat Kohli, Silver Patidar, Glenn Maxwell, Dinesh Karthik, Cameron Green, Karn Sharma, Mohammad Sirj, Yash Dayal, Rece Topley, Mahipal Lomoror
First Innings: PBKS Set a Competitive Total
PBK landed for a stable start with Shikhar Dhawan and a cautious opening partnership with Bairstow. Kohli’s sharp fielding and Siraj’s disciplined bowling ensured that there was no free.
However, it was Liam Livingstone that ignited the innings with a Quickfire 60 off 32 balls. His aggressive approach replaced the tide, especially in mid -overs, punishing RCB spinners.
PBK posted a strong total of 178/6 in 20 overs, a pressure score in a pressure final. Livingstone was the top scorer, while Siraj and Karn Sharma took two wickets.
Second Innings: RCB Chase with Nerves of Steel
RCB’s chase began with fireworks from Kohli and FAF du Plessis. Kohli, in particular, determined and in the highest touch, scoring a fluent 70 off 45 balls. The platform was set, but some quick wickets in the middle overs brought PBK back to the game.
RCB needed 35 runs in the last 3 overs, it was Glenn Maxwell and Dinesh Karthik, who showed steel veins. The match ended under the peace of Maxwell’s courageous reverse sweep and Karthik.
RCB scored the title with 3 balls, which ended at 179/5. Players, fans and emotions from the city of Bangalore were heartbreaking.
Key Moments of the IPL 2025 Final
- Livingstone’s power surge – His 60 replaced PBK’s innings tempo.
- Kohli’s best knock – Vintage Kohli chased RCB with flow.
- Siraj’s early magic – he quickly removed Dhawan, setting the tone.
- A partnership formed on Maxwell– Cartic Finish-Pariplata and confidence.
Records Broken in IPL 2025 Final
- RCB became the first team to win their first title after 16 season.
- Virat Kohli scored the most runs in the IPL final (more than 300 runs).
- Liam Livingstone hit the most sixes in a single IPL final (9).
- The IPL 2025 final became the most watched match with record streaming and TV viewership in IPL history.
Post-Match Reactions
Faf du Plessis
“This title is for every RCB fan who has been waiting for 16 years. We always believed.”
Virat Kohli
“It’s emotional. We’ve been so close so many times. This one is for the fans, the franchise, and every RCB player who came before us.”
Shikhar Dhawan
“We fought hard. Proud of the boys. We’ll come back stronger next season.”
Social Media Buzz
- #RCBchampion trended worldwide within minutes.
- Mem, emotional fan videos, and were dumped in tribute.
- Celebrities from all over India congratulated RCB, including Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and even former players like AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle.
What This Final Means for RCB
The IPL 2025 final will go down as a turning point in the history of RCB. This victory will change his story forever, from having “almost and there” to becoming champions in the end.
It also strengthened Kohli’s legacy. Although he was not the captain, his influence, for example, and frequent performances were important for the glory on RCB’s road.
What Lies Ahead for PBKS
Despite being heartbreaking, the IPL 2025 Final was filled with promise from PBK . The young players gained priceless experience, and the team looked more balanced than ever.
With some turns in leadership and team combinations, PBK can easily be strong contenders in IPL 2026.
Lessons From the IPL 2025 Final
- Patience pays: RCB showed the importance of building a core over years.
- Team on individuals: Both teams trusted collective performance.
- Experience in final cases: Senior RCB players handled pressure better.
- Momentum is important: Both finalists had a lot of finish on the league stage.
Fan Anticipation and Ticket Frenzy
As soon as the IPL 2025 final, fans in India and abroad scrambled for tickets. The world’s largest cricket ground Narendra Modi Stadium, with a capacity of over 132,000, was expected to be sold – and it was. More than 2 million people were waiting in a few minutes of release in digital queues for ticket sales.
RCB’s fanbase, known as the most loyal and emotional in the IPL, arrived in large numbers from Karnataka and neighboring states. On the other hand, PBKS supporters, who waited for a serious title run for more than a decade, came out in the draw, bringing Bhangra Beats, colored flags and unmatched energy with them.
There was red and gold on the streets of Ahmedabad as fans from both sides created an atmosphere like a carnival. The mantra of “EE Sala Cup Namde” echoed with “Sadda Punjab”, who only represented more than slogans – he was a cultural moment born from the years of Hope and Heartbreak.
Pre-Match Ceremonies and Celeb Glitz
The IPL 2025 final was not just a cricket match – it was a spectacle. Pre-match celebrations were performed by the Global Music Icon Diljit Dosanjh, Bollywood star Creti Sanon and an aerial drone light show, which showed the IPL journey over the years.
Former IPL champions like MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and AB de Villiers were seen in the VIP box, while current and former BCCI officials shared indifferent moments about the development of the tournament.
Special messages from cricket legends like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sachin Tendulkar highlighted the importance of the IPL 2025 final in India’s sports culture.
Tactical Breakdown: How RCB Outplayed PBKS
While the scoreboard could show a narrow finish, RCB’s strategic discipline made a big difference in the IPL 2025 finals. Let’s break it:
Powerplay Control
RCB focused on limiting PBK in Powerplay and staging the offside field by bowling tight lines. Siraj and Topley made scoring difficult for openers Dhawan and Barresto, which led to the delivery of back and forth.
Powerplay ended with PBKS at 39/1 – a psychological win to Bengaluru. RCB maintained control in early stages, an important element in the larger finals.
Spin Strangle in the Middle Overs
RCB’s Carn Sharma and Mahilal Lomar used another masterstroke in the tendon. He scored from 8 to 12 overs, forcing PBK to take risky shots, causing wickets. The phase withdrew the match after Livingstone’s aggressive start to RCB.
Kohli’s Anchor Role
In chasing, the roles of the anchor are often reduced. Kohli was not 70 out of 70 for 45 runs, but was invaluable. They ensured that there are no moments of terror, rotated the strike from the master, and absorbed pressure from PBKS pacers such as Rabada and Curan.
Calculated Finish
Instead of quickly leaving, the RCB’s lower order waited to launch its retaliation by the 18th over. Glenn Maxwell, known for unexpectedness, stuck to target the leg side, while Dinesh Karthik focused on scooping and driving through gaps. His quiet approach proved to be important.
PBKS: What Went Wrong?
Despite the run of his outstanding tournament, the PBK IPL 2025 final barrier in the final. Let’s find out the reasons:
Lack of Bowling Variations
Arshdeep Singh and Kagiso Rabada were included in the death overs. With Maxwell and Karthik batting, PBK could try more off-pace delivery or even bring in a stunning spinner for an over.
Overdependence on Livingstone
In addition to Livingstone, PBK did not have a middle order fire. Jitesh Sharma’s early dismissal and lack of contribution to Prabhasimran Singh and Sam Curran hurt his pace. Like the IPL 2025 final, in high-hand matches, teams require at least 4-5 batsmen.
Captaincy Decisions
Shikhar Dhawan’s decision not to bowl Harpreet Brar in 15–19. Brar took significant wickets throughout the season, and his left hand spin could combat RCB’s right hand.
RCB’s Long Wait Finally Ends
RCB’s victory in the IPL 2025 final was more than just one trophy-it was the release of bottled feelings, frustrations and years near Mrs. The team made it to the three finals before 2025 in 2009, 2011 and 2016 – but failed to cross the finish line. Every time, fans stood by him.
Over the years, legends like Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, and Daniel Vetori wore RCB jerseys proudly, but never tasted the IPL glory. The IPL 2025 final was RCB’s redemption for all those lost opportunities.
Kohli and RCB: A Love Story Like No Other
Virat Kohli has been with RCB since the establishment of IPL in 2008. His loyalty towards the franchise has been often questioned due to lack of trophies. But he always believed.
In the IPL 2025 final, Kohli did not only perform – he symbolized what stood for the team: faith, patience, and unbreakable dedication. Kohli’s image will be distinguished in the IPL folk song, which raises the trophy with tears in his eyes.
Global Reactions to the IPL 2025 Final
The IPL 2025 final was not only a national program, but also a global cricketing spectacle.
- ICC President Greg Barkley tweeted: “What is unprecedented for a magnificent season. Congratulations to RCB. The IPL continues to set a global benchmark.”
- Michael Vaughan called it “the most emotional final since the first edition in 2008”.
- Wasim Akram praised Virat Kohli as “one of the greatest IPL players ever”.
Cricket fans in the UK, Australia and UAE joined the worldwide match on social media platforms.
Media Coverage and Commentary Highlights
In the IPL 2025 final, there was a record engagement on platforms.
- Star Sports and Geocenema reported a total of 1.1 billion minutes.
- Commentary teams in English, Hindi, Kannada and Punjabi brought fans close to action.
- Harsha Bhogle’s line, “Sixteen -year -old heart broke, washed in 3 balls,” immediately became distinguished.
IPL 2026: What to Expect Post IPL 2025 Final
The result of IPL 2025 final sets tone for a dramatic next season:
- RCB will try to protect its crown with confidence.
- PBKs will be re -organized and possibly change their leadership group.
- Other franchises must have been watching and analyzing what these two teams did in 2025.
We can focus more on youth, spin bowling options and finisars to follow the blueprint seen in the final this year’s final.
Final Thoughts
The IPL 2025 final, gave fans everything they expected – intensity, drama, heart break and ultimate bliss. It was not just about cricket; It was about emotion, loyalty and perseverance. Two teams fought fiercely with a long title drought, but only one was victorious.
As the dust accumulates on this unforgettable version of the Indian Premier League, RCB fans will cherish this victory for generations, and PBK will return to the drawing board with hope and determination.
IPL 2025 Final: Key Stats at a Glance
| Category | RCB | PBKS |
| Top Scorer | Virat Kohli (70) | Liam Livingstone (60) |
| Best Bowler | Mohammed Siraj (2/28) | Arshdeep Singh (2/34) |
| Total Score | 179/5 | 178/6 |
| Sixes Hit | 10 | 12 |
| Man of the Match | Virat Kohli | — |
| Total Viewership | 43 million+ | 43 million+ |
FAQs About the IPL 2025 Final
Q1. What made the IPL 2025 Final between RCB and PBKS historic?
The IPL 2025 Final was historic because it featured two franchises—Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS)—who had never won an IPL title before. The emotional significance, the massive fan buildup, and the closely contested match made it one of the most unforgettable finals in IPL history.
Q2. Who won the IPL 2025 Final?
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) emerged victorious in the IPL 2025 Final, chasing down PBKS’s score of 178/6 with 3 balls to spare. This marked RCB’s first-ever IPL title after 16 seasons of heartbreak and near-misses.
Q3. Where was the IPL 2025 Final held?
The IPL 2025 Final was held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the world’s largest cricket stadium, with a capacity of over 132,000 spectators. It provided the perfect stage for such an iconic clash.
Q4. Who was the top performer in the IPL 2025 Final?
Virat Kohli was the standout performer in the IPL 2025 Final, scoring a crucial 70 runs off 45 balls. His composed innings played a key role in anchoring RCB’s successful run chase and earned him the Man of the Match award.
Q5. How did PBKS perform in the IPL 2025 Final?
Punjab Kings (PBKS) put up a strong fight in the IPL 2025 Final, scoring 178/6 with Liam Livingstone smashing a quick 60 off 32 balls. However, their bowling lacked variation in the death overs, which ultimately cost them the title.
Q6. What records were broken in the IPL 2025 Final?
Several records were broken during the IPL 2025 Final:
- RCB won their maiden IPL title after 16 seasons.
- Virat Kohli became the highest run-scorer in IPL final matches.
- Liam Livingstone hit 9 sixes, the most in a single IPL final.
- The final became the most-watched IPL match in history, both on TV and digital platforms.
Q7. Why is the IPL 2025 Final considered a turning point for RCB?
The IPL 2025 Final is seen as a turning point for RCB because it ended a 16-year title drought and solidified their legacy in IPL history. It also validated the franchise’s long-term strategy and the leadership of veterans like FAF du Plessis and Virat Kohli.
Q8. Will PBKS bounce back after the IPL 2025 Final loss?
Yes, despite the heartbreak in the IPL 2025 Final, PBKS showed immense promise throughout the season. With a young core and experienced campaigners, they are expected to bounce back stronger in IPL 2026, possibly with leadership and tactical changes.
Q9. How did fans react to the IPL 2025 Final result?
The IPL 2025 Final sparked an emotional outpouring from fans. RCB supporters celebrated the long-awaited victory with parades and fireworks, while PBKS fans expressed pride in their team’s journey. Social media was flooded with tributes, memes, and congratulatory posts.
