For over a decade, the Punjab Kings (PBKS) have been the nearly-men of the IPL—brimming with promise but crumbling under pressure. But now, after 11 long years, they stand on the cusp of glory, ready to rewrite their story in the most dramatic IPL final ever.
On the other side? The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), a team equally starved of success, carrying the weight of 16 seasons of near-misses and shattered dreams.
Two teams. Zero titles. One historic night to change everything.
The Miracle Run: How Punjab Kings Defied All Odds
Led by the calm yet explosive Shreyas Iyer, Punjab’s journey to the final has been nothing short of cinematic. Their last appearance in an IPL final was in 2014, and since then, they’ve been stuck in a cycle of rebuilds, collapses, and heartbreaking exits.
But this time? Something felt different.
In Qualifier 2, against the mighty Mumbai Indians (MI), Punjab showed nerves of steel. A rain-delayed start, a tricky chase of 204, and the pressure of facing Bumrah, Boult, and Santner—everything was stacked against them.
But Shreyas Iyer played the innings of his life—an unbeaten 87 off 41 balls, a masterclass in composure and controlled aggression. His message to the team? “The bigger the occasion, the calmer you must be.”
And calm they were. Punjab didn’t just win—they conquered their demons.
RCB’s Redemption Arc: From Last Year’s Disaster to This Year’s Destiny
Meanwhile, RCB’s journey has been equally dramatic. After finishing last in 2023, they roared back this season, led by Virat Kohli’s relentless hunger and Faf du Plessis’ tactical brilliance.
In Qualifier 1, they outplayed Punjab, proving they have the upper hand. But finals are a different beast.
Kohli, Faf, Maxwell, and a fired-up Lockie Ferguson—RCB’s arsenal is terrifying. But so is Punjab’s momentum.
Why This Final is the Most Special Ever?
- First-Time Champions Guaranteed: Neither PBKS nor RCB have ever won the IPL. History will be made.
- Shreyas Iyer vs Virat Kohli: A battle of two leaders carrying the hopes of millions.
- The Redemption Factor: Punjab’s 11-year wait vs RCB’s 16-year drought.
- A Clash of Explosive Batting: Both teams have firepower that can light up any chase.
- The Ultimate Underdog Story: No one expected Punjab to be here. Now, they’re one step from immortality.
Who Will Break Their Curse?
Will Punjab Kings, the perennial underdogs, finally lift the trophy? Or will RCB, after years of heartbreak, finally give Kohli & Co. the glory they deserve?
One thing is certain—this isn’t just a final. It’s a legacy-defining war.