RCB vs PBKS: As Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) gear up for a high-stakes IPL 2025 final on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the memory of their recent clash in Qualifier 1 remains fresh - and telling.
In that pivotal encounter, RCB dismantled PBKS with a commanding all-round performance, sealing an emphatic eight-wicket victory to book their spot in the final.

Batting first, Punjab Kings crumbled under pressure, managing just 101 runs in 14.1 overs - their lowest total of the season. RCB's bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood and Mohammed Siraj, exploited the conditions perfectly, applying relentless pressure and never allowing PBKS to settle.
RCB's response with the bat was clinical. Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar took charge of the chase, knocking off the modest target in just 10 overs. The win not only secured RCB their fourth IPL final appearance but also boosted their momentum heading into the summit clash.
While that dominant win gives Bengaluru a psychological edge, Punjab Kings have proven their resilience. They bounced back strongly in Qualifier 2, chasing down a stiff target of 204 against Mumbai Indians, thanks to a heroic 87* from captain Shreyas Iyer. The comeback underlined their grit and batting firepower, especially under pressure.
This final marks uncharted territory for both sides in different ways - PBKS are chasing redemption in only their second final since 2014, while RCB are looking to shed the label of perennial underachievers in their fourth attempt at glory.
Though RCB dominated the last meeting, finals bring their own pressure and unpredictability. PBKS will aim to learn from their earlier collapse and come out stronger, while RCB will hope to replicate their ruthless performance and finally lift the elusive IPL trophy.
With contrasting journeys, past heartbreaks, and in-form line-ups, the stage is set for a blockbuster showdown between two sides desperate to etch their names into IPL history.