Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have taken a significant step towards ending their long wait for an Indian Premier League (IPL) title, securing a place in the 2025 final after a dominant eight-wicket win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 at Mullanpur on Thursday. According to a report by the Times of India, RCB not only advanced to their fourth IPL final — after previous runner-up finishes in 2009, 2011, and 2016 — but also positioned themselves on the statistically favourable path to championship glory.
The Times of India reports that, in the IPL’s current playoff format, introduced in 2011, teams finishing in the top two after the league stage get two chances to reach the final. And there’s a strong historical trend that favours the winner of Qualifier 1 – 11 of the 14 IPL titles since 2011 have been won by the team that advanced directly to the final through this route.
As per the data analysed by the Times of India, even more telling, all seven champions from 2018 to 2024 — including CSK (2018, 2021, 2023), MI (2019, 2020), GT (2022) and KKR (2024) — were winners of Qualifier 1. It’s a trend that puts RCB in an enviable position as they prepare for the final in Ahmedabad on June 3.
Riding on Virat Kohli’s class and Rajat Patidar’s captaincy, RCB have carried momentum and clarity into the playoffs. This extended break before the final gives them time to recover, strategise and sharpen their edge for the title bout. As noted by the Times of India, RCB’s chances of winning their first IPL title in 2025 look promising.
Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans take on Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator on Friday, with the winner facing PBKS in Qualifier 2. Whoever emerges from that battle will meet a well-rested RCB, who now not only hold form but also history firmly in their favour. The Times of India suggests that all signs are promising for RCB to finally lift their maiden IPL trophy.
The win over PBKS was a dominant performance by RCB, with the team showcasing their strengths in both batting and bowling. As reported by the Times of India, RCB’s momentum and clarity have been key to their success in the playoffs, and they will look to carry this forward into the final. With history on their side, RCB will look to make the most of this opportunity and bring home their first IPL title.
The Times of India also reports that RCB’s captain, Rajat Patidar, and coach, have been working hard to ensure that the team is well-prepared for the final. With a strong team dynamic and a clear strategy in place, RCB will look to make their mark on the tournament and bring home the coveted IPL trophy. As the Times of India notes, it’s an exciting time for RCB fans, who have been waiting for their team to lift the trophy for years.
The Indian Premier League has seen several teams dominate the tournament over the years, but RCB’s consistent performance has made them a strong contender for the title. With their recent win over PBKS, RCB has sent a strong message to the other teams in the tournament, and the Times of India believes that they have a good chance of winning the title this year.
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