IPL 2025 final | Chance for Royal Challengers, Kings to set the record straight

History-making clash between RCB and PBKS in IPL final as both sides chase glory.

History beckons as Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings attempt to break new ground here on Tuesday.

Now into the 18th edition of the IPL, the wait for a maiden title has been long and painful for RCB and PBKS. A glorious new chapter will be written at the Narendra Modi Stadium for one of the two combatants.

For Virat Kohli, loyal to RCB from the very origins of this tournament, Tuesday presents another chance to set the record straight. Having been at the receiving end in three finals, Kohli would like to seal his legacy with a match-winning innings.

Shreyas factor

Standing at the opposite end is Shreyas Iyer, whose inspired knock on Sunday knocked heavyweight Mumbai Indians out. This grand arena is not new to Shreyas, with the Mumbaikar having led Delhi Capitals to the 2020 final, before laying his hands on the title as the Kolkata Knight Riders skipper last year.

The clinical victory over MI has turned PBKS’ abject failure in Qualifier 1 into a minor blip. RCB had run through the PBKS batting unit, but that brings little comfort to Rajat Patidar’s men. If PBKS turns up once again at full tilt, the side is near unbeatable.

RCB has thrived under the new leadership group of skipper Patidar and head coach Andy Flower. There are match-winners in every position — the sign of a truly well-oiled machine. Unlike past seasons, wherein the star players have had to bear a heavy burden, there have been contributions from all quarters this time around.