The anticipation in the stadium was electric. Cricket aficionados from all over the world tuned in as the IPL 2025 final unfolded in Ahmedabad. This matchup wasn’t just another cricket game; it was the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) going head-to-head against Punjab Kings (PBKS), two franchises with passionate fan bases and history. Among the crowd were notable figures such as UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murty, who were not only enjoying the game but fervently cheering for RCB. Their presence added an extra layer of delight to what was already a thrilling event.
The Setting: Ahmedabad – Cricket Extravaganza
Ahmedabad has been a significant player in India’s cricketing timeline. The Narendra Modi Stadium, with a capacity of over 132,000, stood filled to the brim, boasting an electric atmosphere as the final got underway. With its world-class facilities and state-of-the-art technology, this venue epitomizes the passion of Indian cricket. The fans, attired in vibrant red and gold, were a sight to behold, uniting under the shared dream of seeing their favorite team lift the IPL trophy.
A Brief Snapshot of RCB and PBKS in IPL 2025
Team | Wins | Losses | Key Players |
---|---|---|---|
RCB | 12 | 4 | Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis |
PBKS | 10 | 6 | Shikhar Dhawan, Liam Livingstone |
RCB: The Underdog Dreaming Big
Royal Challengers Bangalore has been the underdog in many IPL seasons. They are known for their vibrant fan base and near-mythical status within the cricket community for their celebrity gamers, including the legendary Virat Kohli. Despite their stellar performance over the years, RCB has yet to win the coveted IPL title, making this final especially poignant for fans.
Virat Kohli’s return to form and Faf du Plessis’s leadership made RCB unstoppable this season. With memorable match moments, breathtaking wickets, and nail-biting chases, RCB fought their way to the final, where their determination shone through.
PBKS: The Kings of Resilience
Punjab Kings entered the final raring to go, having faced their share of hurdles. Unlike RCB, the franchise has undergone numerous changes over the years, constantly tweaking the squad in pursuit of that elusive trophy. Under the charismatic leadership of Shikhar Dhawan, PBKS mounted a campaign that captured fans’ hearts, particularly due to their resilience.
With players like Liam Livingstone and Arshdeep Singh stepping up, PBKS carved out impressive victories. Their mantra was clear: ‘One match at a time.’ This philosophy led them to their second IPL final, and they were determined to break the streak of near misses.
The Final Match: RCB vs. PBKS
The day of the final was nothing short of a festival. Fans arrived early, filled with excitement and color. The venue buzzed with music, laughter, and the sweet anticipation of a cricket feast. Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty, symbolizing a blend of statesmanship and sport, were spotted in the crowd, which amplified the atmosphere.
First Innings
RCB won the toss and chose to bat first. The decision faced criticism; however, RCB had a strategy in mind. Opening the innings, Kohli and du Plessis displayed an impressive partnership, guiding the team to a formidable total of 195 runs. Kohli’s authoritative sixes and du Plessis’s calculative strategy left PBKS scrambling.
Second Innings
As PBKS took to the crease, the stage was set for a captivating chase. However, RCB’s bowlers unleashed a disciplined performance. Each over posed challenges for PBKS, with wickets falling at crucial junctures. Despite a valiant effort from Dhawan, who scored 60 runs, PBKS ultimately fell short and managed to post only 164 runs.
The Tension Builds
Throughout the match, Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty were pivotal figures in RCB’s cheer squad. Their enthusiastic support didn’t go unnoticed by fans and players alike.
“Cricket brings people together, creating an atmosphere that transcends boundaries. Today, we’re all bound by RCB!” – Rishi Sunak
Moments to Remember
- Kohli’s Captaincy: An unyielding performance that set the tone of the match.
- Best Bowling Performance: RCB’s Harshal Patel claimed four crucial wickets, turning the game.
- The Crowd’s Energy: The resonance of the chants “RCB! RCB!” was heard across the stadium.
Q1: Why is the IPL Final so significant?
A1: The IPL Final is the culmination of months of intense competition, showcasing the best talent in cricket and the passionate fan support for each team.
Q2: What was the final score?
A2: RCB scored 195 runs while PBKS managed 164 runs, making RCB the champions of IPL 2025.
Q3: Who were the key players in the final?
A3: Key players included Virat Kohli for RCB, who played an exceptional innings, and Shikhar Dhawan, who attempted to lead PBKS in their chase.
Q4: What impact does celebrity presence have at sporting events?
A4: Celebrity presence, such as Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty, can elevate the event’s profile, drawing greater attention and creating a more festive atmosphere.
Conclusion
The IPL 2025 final was far more than just a cricket match. It was a celebration of the spirit of sports, camaraderie, and an amalgamation of cultures. As RCB lifted the trophy, the cheers from fans echoed through Ahmedabad, overshadowed only by the pride felt by Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty cheering in the stands.
In the words of cricketing legend Brian Lara,
“Cricket is a simple game. You throw the ball, you hit the ball, and you catch the ball. But that simplicity allows for the most amazing complexity.”
And indeed, IPL 2025 had showcased complexity at its finest, making it a final for the ages.
IPL 2025 final, RCB vs PBKS; Rishi Sunak and Akshata Murty cheer for RCB in Ahmedabad