Will the IPL 2025 Final Feature RCB and Punjab Kings?

New Delhi, May 28 (NationPress) Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Robin Uthappa expressed his belief that the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) will face off in the IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 3.

The Punjab Kings secured their placement among the top two after clinching a seven-wicket victory over the Mumbai Indians in Jaipur on Monday. With 19 points from 14 matches, the team, led by Shreyas Iyer, is currently at the top of the standings. RCB, with a chance to surpass them, must win against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Tuesday.

Currently, RCB holds the third position with 17 points from 13 matches. A victory against LSG could propel them to the top if they can improve upon PBKS's net run rate.

“It's crucial to have momentum at the right moment in the tournament and the right impetus heading into the playoffs. Punjab began the tournament exceptionally strong, faced some challenges towards the end of the league stage, but regained their momentum just before the playoffs. While they might lose a player or two to international duties, their batting lineup remains solid,” Uthappa stated.

“I feel that Arshdeep Singh has yet to find his rhythm, which could actually benefit Punjab as he may be primed for a significant performance in critical matches. I strongly believe the final will feature RCB and Punjab,” Uthappa added during his appearance on JioStar.

He also commended Iyer's leadership in taking Punjab to the playoffs after an 11-year gap. “Shreyas has always been an exceptional captain. Despite his contributions at KKR, he seemed undervalued. He transitioned to a franchise with a less storied history and achieved great things, which speaks volumes about his leadership,” Uthappa remarked.

The former batter is optimistic about the return of pacer Josh Hazlewood ahead of the playoffs and hopes for strong performances from the rest of the bowling unit.

“From the onset, I have maintained that it will be Punjab and RCB in the final. They both have the momentum and have been bowling well. They must finish games strong, and Virat Kohli needs to be the chase master we know him to be — batting throughout the 20 overs. When he does this, it puts pressure on the opposing team, especially in the final overs. The bowlers must also rise to the occasion. I am pleased to see Josh Hazlewood back, which will also assist Bhuvi (Bhuvneshwar Kumar). Yash Dayal has performed decently in the death overs. Although Suyash had a setback in the last match, if he returns to his disciplined form from earlier in the IPL, he could be effective again. Krunal Pandya has also been bowling well,” Uthappa concluded.