Royal Challengers Bengaluru have finally broken the chains of an 18-season-long wait, claiming their first-ever IPL title in 2025. For a team that has long been a cornerstone of Indian cricket fandom, this victory is more than just a trophy—it’s a redemption story. Known for their star-studded lineups and passionate fan base, RCB had been haunted by their inability to clinch the title, falling short in the finals of 2009, 2011, and 2016.

On June 3, 2025, at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, RCB defeated Punjab Kings in a thrilling final to rewrite their legacy. This victory is seen as the end of the infamous “finals curse” and a new dawn for the franchise. For fans, it’s a moment of vindication, a celebration of resilience, and a reminder that dreams, no matter how delayed, can come true.

A Nail-Biting Finale: RCB Triumphs by 6 Runs

The 1wins-in.in final on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahamedabad delivered everything fans could hope for: high scores, edge-of-the-seat drama, and a result that hung in the balance until the very last over. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) emerged victorious, defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by a razor-thin margin of 6 runs to claim their maiden IPL title.

Batting first, RCB posted a competitive 190/9 in their 20 overs. Virat Kohli played a pivotal role, anchoring the innings with a composed 43 off 35 balls. While the total wasn’t monumental, it was enough to set a challenging target of 191 for PBKS. In response, Punjab Kings fought valiantly, with Shashank Singh leading a spirited comeback. His explosive 61 runs off just 34 balls brought PBKS tantalizingly close to victory, but they ultimately fell short, finishing at 184/7.

The turning point of the match came in the death overs, where RCB’s bowlers, led by Player of the Match Krunal Pandya, showcased nerves of steel. Pandya’s all-round performance was instrumental in defending the total, as he not only picked up crucial wickets but also stifled PBKS’s scoring opportunities in the final overs. His ability to maintain control under immense pressure proved decisive.

What made this final truly special was how evenly matched the teams were. PBKS stayed in the hunt until the very end, with every boundary and wicket shifting the momentum. The game was a testament to the fine margins that define cricket, where one misstep or one moment of brilliance can tilt the scales. For RCB, it was their ability to hold their nerve in those critical moments that finally broke their 18-year title drought and etched their name in IPL history.

The Heroes Behind RCB’s Historic Triumph

Every championship team is built on the shoulders of key individuals, and RCB’s maiden IPL title in 2025 was no exception. From astute leadership to clutch performances, several figures played pivotal roles in turning the dream into reality.

• Rajat Patidar: The Calm Captain. Stepping into the captaincy role for the 2025 season, Rajat Patidar proved to be a steady hand at the helm. His leadership was marked by a perfect balance of composure and calculated risks. Whether it was rotating bowlers effectively or making bold field placements, Patidar’s decisions often tilted the game in RCB’s favor. His ability to keep the team grounded during high-pressure moments, especially in the playoffs, was instrumental in their success.
• Andy Flower: The Mastermind Coach. Behind the scenes, head coach Andy Flower brought his wealth of experience to the table. Known for his pragmatic approach, Flower focused on percentage cricket—making smart, data-driven decisions rather than chasing flashy plays. His influence was evident in RCB’s disciplined performances throughout the season, particularly in the knockout stages, where his strategies helped the team stay one step ahead of their opponents.
• Krunal Pandya: The Game-Changer. In the final, it was Krunal Pandya who stole the spotlight. His spell of 2/17 was a masterclass in control and precision, choking Punjab Kings’ chase at critical junctures. Pandya’s ability to stifle runs and pick up key wickets underlined the importance of spinners in high-stakes games. His performance earned him the Player of the Match award and cemented his place as a clutch performer.
• The Unsung Heroes: Bhuvneshwar Kumar and the Fielders. While the spotlight often falls on the stars, RCB’s success was also built on the “silent workers.” Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s 2/38 in the final was a crucial blow to PBKS’s momentum, while the fielding unit’s sharpness saved vital runs. Together, they formed the backbone of RCB’s title-winning defense.

This blend of leadership, strategy, and teamwork finally broke RCB’s title curse, with even Virat Kohli dedicating the victory to former legends AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle—a fitting tribute to the franchise’s storied history.

RCB’s Road to Glory: Consistency Meets Clutch Performances

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL 2025 triumph wasn’t just the result of one magical evening—it was the culmination of a season-long journey marked by consistency, resilience, and the ability to deliver under pressure. With 19 points from 14 matches (9 wins, 4 losses, and 1 no result), RCB showcased one of their strongest campaigns in franchise history.

In the league stage, RCB’s balanced approach was evident. Their batting lineup, led by Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis, consistently set or chased competitive totals, while their bowling unit, featuring Krunal Pandya and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, delivered crucial breakthroughs. Key victories, such as their dominant win over Mumbai Indians and a thrilling last-over finish against Chennai Super Kings, highlighted their ability to perform in high-stakes situations. These wins not only boosted their confidence but also solidified their position in the top four.

However, the league table told only part of the story. While RCB and Punjab Kings both finished with 19 points, PBKS edged ahead on Net Run Rate. This set the stage for the playoffs, where the true test of nerves began. As the saying goes, “The league stage shows your system’s strength, but the playoffs reveal your mental toughness.”

RCB’s playoff run was a masterclass in handling pressure. They defeated Lucknow Super Giants in the Eliminator and edged past Gujarat Titans in a nail-biting Qualifier 2 to book their spot in the final. What stood out was their ability to adapt and rise to the occasion, with players like Rajat Patidar and Krunal Pandya stepping up when it mattered most.

Ultimately, RCB’s journey to the title was a testament to their growth as a team. They combined regular-season consistency with playoff composure, proving that their championship was no fluke but the result of a well-executed campaign.

1win: Supporting Fans and Enhancing the IPL Experience

During the electrifying IPL 2025 season, fans not only cheered for their favorite teams but also engaged in the thrill of sports betting, with many turning to 1win to amplify their experience. As Royal Challengers Bengaluru made their historic run to the title, cricket enthusiasts across the country supported their team while placing bets on the action through the trusted 1win betting site.

1win is more than just a betting platform—it’s a comprehensive hub for entertainment and sports enthusiasts. Known for its user-friendly interface and wide range of offerings, the 1win official site provides users with access to sports betting, online casino games, and live streaming of events. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer, 1win ensures a seamless experience with competitive odds and a variety of betting options.

For those who prefer betting on the go, the 1win app is a game-changer. Available for both Android and iOS, the app allows users to place bets, track live scores, and manage their accounts with ease. Its intuitive design and fast performance make it a favorite among users in 1win India.

With its commitment to providing a secure and engaging platform, 1 win has become a trusted name in the industry. As fans celebrated RCB’s long-awaited victory, 1win stood as a partner in their journey, adding an extra layer of excitement to the IPL season.

IPL 2025: A Season of Disruptions and Adaptations

The IPL 2025 season will be remembered not only for its thrilling matches but also for the challenges posed by an unexpected mid-season pause. The tournament was halted on May 9 and resumed on May 17 with a revised schedule, culminating in the final on June 3. This disruption reshaped the dynamics of the league, impacting team preparations and player form.

The pause brought both challenges and opportunities for teams. For some, the break disrupted their momentum, while others used the time to recover from injuries and recalibrate their strategies. Teams like RCB, who eventually lifted the trophy, benefited from the chance to regroup and fine-tune their approach. The pause also added an element of unpredictability, as players returned to action with varying levels of form and fitness.

Logistics and venues were another significant factor. The remaining 17 matches were spread across six cities, with the playoffs hosted in New Chandigarh (Qualifier 1 and Eliminator) and Ahmedabad (Qualifier 2 and Final). Venue changes often influence game conditions, from pitch behavior to boundary dimensions, and teams had to adapt quickly to unfamiliar settings. Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, where the final was held, proved to be a fitting stage for RCB’s historic triumph.

The revised calendar also tested the resilience of players and franchises. With the playoffs compressed into a tight schedule—May 29, May 30, June 1, and June 3—teams had little room for error. RCB’s ability to navigate these challenges showcased their adaptability and mental toughness, key factors in their championship run.

Ultimately, IPL 2025 was a season of resilience, where success depended not just on skill but also on the ability to thrive in a constantly shifting landscape. For fans and bettors alike, it was a reminder of the unpredictable beauty of cricket.

A Season to Remember: RCB’s Triumph in IPL 2025

IPL 2025 will go down in history as a season of resilience, drama, and redemption. For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, it marked the end of an 18-year wait, as they lifted their first-ever IPL trophy in a thrilling final against Punjab Kings. From Rajat Patidar’s calm leadership to Krunal Pandya’s match-winning performances, RCB’s journey was a testament to teamwork and adaptability. Despite mid-season disruptions and a challenging playoff schedule, they emerged stronger, proving their mettle under pressure. This season wasn’t just about cricket—it was about rewriting legacies and creating moments that fans will cherish forever.