RCB vs PBKS: A Historic IPL Final Promises Ecstasy for One, Agony for the Other

After 17 seasons of heartbreak and near misses, either Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) or Punjab Kings (PBKS) will finally break their title drought when they meet in the IPL 2025 Final on Tuesday at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Both franchises, ever-present since the league's inception in 2008, are chasing a maiden IPL crown in what promises to be one of the most emotionally charged finals in the tournament's history.

The End of the “Holy Trinity” Era

RCB and PBKS, along with Delhi Capitals, have long formed the IPL’s so-called "Holy Trinity" — franchises that have never lifted the trophy despite significant fan followings and numerous rebuilds. On Tuesday, that moniker will lose a member. One of RCB or PBKS will finally emerge victorious. The other will remain a symbol of unfulfilled potential.

PBKS are playing their first IPL final since 2014, while RCB are returning for their fourth attempt at glory — having lost in 2009, 2011, and 2016. For RCB fans, another defeat would be a brutal blow, especially after a season in which the team found a rare balance between star power and supporting depth. For PBKS, it would be yet another restart in a long cycle of rebuilds that have frequently promised more than they delivered.

Kohli’s Last Chance?

Central to RCB’s campaign is Virat Kohli, who continues to redefine consistency in T20 cricket. With over 500 runs yet again — his record eighth such season — Kohli has played a pivotal role in RCB's run to the final. But the former India captain is still chasing an IPL title, and a fourth final loss would be a cruel ending to a campaign that’s followed a historic 12 months including global trophies and his Test retirement.

Players to Watch: Patidar & Chahal

RCB’s captain Rajat Patidar has provided the team with crucial early momentum, including a game-changing six in Qualifier 1 against PBKS. While his form has dipped, his fearless approach could be vital on Ahmedabad’s high-scoring surface.

PBKS spinner Yuzvendra Chahal will look to haunt his former franchise once again. Chahal has already dismissed Shreyas Iyer and Josh Inglis multiple times this season, and if fit, could be a game-changer in the middle overs. However, a lingering hand injury casts doubt over his availability.

Team News

RCB are sweating on the fitness of Tim David, who has missed the last two games with a hamstring injury. He is a potential straight swap for Liam Livingstone if declared fit.

RCB (probable XI): Phil Salt, Virat Kohli, Mayank Agarwal, Rajat Patidar (capt), Liam Livingstone/Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma.

PBKS are expected to retain the same XI from their Qualifier 2 win against MI, though Chahal’s availability will be assessed closer to the match. Harpreet Brar is the likely replacement if Chahal is ruled out.

PBKS (probable XI): Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Josh Inglis (wk), Shreyas Iyer (capt), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Kyle Jamieson, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal/Harpreet Brar.

Venue & Conditions

Ahmedabad has been a batting haven this season — 200-plus scores have been posted in nearly every first innings. PBKS have played and won twice at the venue, including their season opener and Qualifier 2. RCB, meanwhile, will be playing here for the first time this season.

The final will be played on a red-and-black mixed-soil pitch, known to offer bounce and carry. There is a slight chance of rain, but a reserve day is in place to ensure a result.

Tactical Insight

Josh Hazlewood has dominated PBKS this season, especially against Inglis and Iyer, and could be key in the powerplay.
Suyash Sharma has had a clear edge over PBKS’ right-handers but struggled against lefties like Nehal Wadhera.
Kohli’s slower strike rate in overs 7-10 could be targeted by PBKS’ spinners, particularly if Chahal plays.

Final Thought

With legacy-defining stakes for both franchises — and especially for Kohli and Iyer, the latter aiming for back-to-back IPL titles as captain of different teams — this final is more than just a match. It’s a long-overdue moment of reckoning, redemption, or repeated heartache.