The grand finale of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to unfold at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, June 3. It is anticipated that the encounter between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) will be thrilling. The scenario is set for a high-stakes matchup because they have previously met each other three times this season, with RCB having a slim 2-1 advantage, including a convincing victory in Qualifier 1.
RCB made it to the final having easily defeating Punjab by 8 wickets in the first qualifier in Mullanpur. However, PBKS showed resilience, bouncing back with a convincing five-wicket win over Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 to secure another crack at RCB.
The rivalry between these two sides is among the most evenly balanced in IPL history, with both teams having won 18 games apiece from their 36 previous encounters. As RCB aim to finally claim their first-ever IPL trophy, here are three crucial areas they need to get right to outclass Punjab Kings in the title clash.
1. Virat Kohli’s Form with the Bat is Crucial
RCB’s hopes for their maiden title will hinge significantly on the performance of their stalwart, Virat Kohli. The veteran batter has had another remarkable season, amassing 614 runs from 14 innings at an average of 55.81 and a striking rate of 146.53. His eight half-centuries have consistently anchored RCB’s innings throughout the campaign.
Kohli’s track record against Punjab Kings further strengthens his value to the side—he has scored 1,116 runs in 35 matches against PBKS, including six fifties and a century. His ability to provide a solid foundation at the top of the order could be the difference between victory and defeat in the final. For RCB to succeed, Kohli must continue to lead by example with the bat.
2. Shreyas Iyer vs Josh Hazlewood – A Pivotal Match-Up
One of the most outstanding performers of the season, Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer has amassed 603 runs at an average of 54.81 and an incredible strike rate of 175.80 in 16 games. His dominance at the Narendra Modi Stadium is especially noteworthy—he played two innings at the venue this season, scoring 97* and 87* in match-winning efforts.
Neutralizing Iyer early will be key for RCB, and Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood could hold the key to that challenge. Hazlewood has dismissed Iyer four times in just 22 deliveries in IPL matchups—a statistic that RCB will surely consider when setting up their bowling strategy. If Hazlewood can remove the PBKS skipper early, it would provide a massive boost for the Bengaluru side.
3. RCB’s Pace Attack Needs to Fire Early
RCB’s pace battery—comprising Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Yash Dayal—has delivered impressive performances this season. Yash Dayal and Bhuvneshwar Kumar have taken 12 and 15 wickets, respectively, while Hazlewood tops the race with 21 in 11 match.
This trio’s role with the new ball will be crucial in the final. Punjab Kings have struggled in the powerplay, losing a league-high 31 wickets during the initial six overs in the 2025 season. Capitalizing on this weakness, especially as they did in Qualifier 1 by dismantling PBKS’s top order, will be essential for RCB.
An early breakthrough could put Punjab under immense pressure and allow RCB to dictate terms from the outset.
Conclusion
With history on the line, RCB will need to bring their A-game against a resurgent Punjab Kings side. Virat Kohli’s form, a tactical approach to Shreyas Iyer’s wicket, and a fiery start from the pace trio are all critical components that could finally pave the way for RCB’s long-awaited IPL glory. As the cricketing world tunes in for this epic finale, RCB fans will be hoping this is the year their team finally finishes on top.
