Kohli IPL Final 2025 : Nine years. That’s how long it has been since Virat Kohli last led Royal Challengers Bangalore to an IPL final. In 2016, a fiery, passionate Kohli captain, leader, run-machine came close, only to fall short of the ultimate prize. Fast forward to 2025, and the story has a familiar setting, but a new twist. Kohli is no longer the captain, but make no mistake, he remains the heartbeat of this RCB unit. And now, the man in jersey number 18 stands just one match away from bringing home the 18th IPL trophy.
On Thursday night, Bengaluru produced a ruthless display in the first qualifier, dismantling Punjab Kings in a one-sided contest that rarely looked like a playoff clash. Punjab’s batters simply couldn’t handle the pressure, folding for a paltry 101. Shreyas Iyer, leading Punjab this season, watched helplessly as the innings collapsed within 14.1 overs. The match, in truth, was over long before the last wicket fell.
During the commentary, former Aussie opener Matthew Hayden noted the heavy dew settling over the field, a silent enemy that made life miserable for Punjab’s bowlers. Wet outfield, slippery ball, and a red-hot RCB top order, the result was inevitable. Bengaluru chased down the target inside 10 overs, making a loud and clear statement: they are here for the title.
For Punjab, it was heartbreak again. This was their first playoff appearance in 11 years. The last time they made it this far was in 2014, when they lost the final to Kolkata Knight Riders. Ironically, Shreyas Iyer was the captain who led KKR to the title last season. This time, wearing Punjab red, his mission is to script a new story. Though the first qualifier ended in disaster, all is not lost. Shreyas and Punjab will get another shot in Qualifier 2. A win there, and they’ll be back in the final, possibly facing RCB again for redemption.
But the spotlight, unsurprisingly, remains fixed on Kohli.
Before this year’s IPL began, the official broadcasters ran an ad campaign centered around him, a visual montage of hope, resilience, and that ever-burning desire to lift the one trophy that has eluded him for so long. It wasn’t just a promotion; it felt like prophecy.
Now, with the final just one step away, Kohli’s dream is within touching distance. He’s not the captain anymore, but he’s still the talisman. The roar of the crowd, the weight of expectation, and the fire in his eyes all suggest one thing. This time, it might just be different.
A billion eyes will watch. One man will carry their hopes.
Will 2025 finally be the year Kohli lifts the IPL trophy?
Only one match will tell.
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