When the 18th season of the IPL began on March 22, one question was on everyone’s mind - Who will win the title? That question still remains and it will finally be answered tonight.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) will face off in the final. Both teams are vying for their first-ever IPL title, as neither has lifted the trophy in the tournament’s history.
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So, who will win this time? Five cricketing legends have weighed in with bold predictions and all have picked RCB, captained by Rajat Patidar, as their favorite.
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Sunil Gavaskar
Indian batting legend Sunil Gavaskar showered praise on RCB. He said that the kind of performance RCB has delivered in their last eight matches has boosted confidence. According to him, the team is well-balanced and fully capable of winning the title.
Tillakaratne Dilshan
Former Sri Lankan captain Tillakaratne Dilshan, who played for RCB from 2011 to 2013, also lauded the team. “RCB has played like champions this season,” he said. “The team is completely balanced. I genuinely hope they win the title.”
Also Read: IPL 2025: RCB Vs PBKS – Which Team Will Win The Maiden Trophy? Here’s What AI Predicts
Herschelle Gibbs
Former South African opener Herschelle Gibbs also named RCB as his favorite. “My favorite team is RCB. If Punjab bats first, RCB will easily chase the target. Every cricket fan wants to see RCB lifting the trophy,” he stated.
David Warner
Australian opener David Warner believes that RCB will finally win the trophy this time, adding that fast bowler Josh Hazlewood could become the 'Man of the Match'.
Shane Watson
Former all-rounder Shane Watson, who played for multiple IPL teams, said: “Virat Kohli will put on a brilliant performance in the final and will help RCB win the title.”
Michael Clarke
Former Australian captain Michael Clarke remarked, “RCB has the highest number of X-factor players. It’s tough to pick a winner, but my prediction is that RCB will take the final.”
Both Teams Still Waiting for Their First Title
RCB has not won a single title in the last 17 years. The team has reached the final three times and lost on all occasions. Their last appearance in a final was in 2016, where they lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad in a thrilling match.
Punjab Kings, on the other hand, have reached the final after 11 years. They too are chasing their first IPL trophy. With both teams hungry for their maiden title, it will be fascinating to see whether the predictions of these cricketing legends come true—or whether history takes a different turn tonight.
Also Read: IPL 2025: Yuzvendra Chahal To Not Play The Final? Spinner’s Place In The Playing XI In Doubt