The 2025 IPL season is a historic one for Punjab Kings (PBKS) as they qualify for the playoff for the first time in 11 years, finishing atop the table with Shreyas Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting at the helm. PBKS are celebrating a long-awaited return, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) continue their pattern of underachievement at the all-important times, having made several playoff appearances and three runner-up finishes.
Here's an overview of PBKS's comeback and RCB's title pursuit:
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PBKS's Inspiring Journey
The 2025 IPL season has brought a wave of joy and celebration for Punjab Kings (PBKS) fans as the franchise has finally broken its long playoff drought. For the first time in 11 years, PBKS has secured a place in the playoffs, marking a historic achievement for the team.
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Under the dynamic leadership of Shreyas Iyer and the strategic guidance of head coach Ricky Ponting, Punjab Kings delivered a consistent and dominant performance throughout the season. Their efforts paid off handsomely as they finished at the top of the points table with 19 points, showcasing their growth and cohesion as a unit. From explosive batting displays to disciplined bowling efforts, the team has looked balanced and hungry for success.
This season's turnaround comes as a huge morale boost for the franchise, which has often struggled with inconsistency in the past. The last time PBKS reached the playoffs was in 2014, when they finished as runners-up, losing to Kolkata Knight Riders in the final. Since then, playoff qualification had eluded them until now.
Also Read: Milestone To Watch: THSES Key RCB Stars Eye Personal Landmarks In Qualifier Clash Against PBKS
RCB’s Rollercoaster Playoff Journey
While PBKS celebrates a long-awaited return to form, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) continues to carry the burden of near-misses. Despite being one of the most followed franchises in IPL history, RCB’s playoff journey has been a mix of promise and heartbreak.
RCB's Playoff History:
| Year | Stage Reached | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Runners-up | Lost to Deccan Chargers in the Final |
| 2010 | Semi-finalists | Lost to Mumbai Indians |
| 2011 | Runners-up | Lost to Chennai Super Kings in the Final |
| 2015 | Qualifier 2 | Lost in Qualifier 2 |
| 2016 | Runners-up | Lost to Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Final |
| 2020 | Eliminator | Lost in Eliminator |
| 2021 | Eliminator | Lost in Eliminator |
| 2022 | Qualifier 2 | Lost in Qualifier 2 |
| 2024 | Eliminator | Lost in Eliminator |
RCB has made it to the IPL final three times in 2009, 2011, and 2016, but unfortunately ended up on the losing side each time. Despite having some of the biggest names in cricket, the title has remained out of reach for the Bengaluru-based team.
As the IPL 2025 playoffs draw near, all eyes will be on Punjab Kings to see if they can carry their momentum into the knockout stages and go all the way. Their resurgence this season has reignited belief among their loyal fan base.
For RCB, the wait for a maiden title continues, and the pressure to deliver next season will be immense. Their playoff record shows consistent qualification, but converting those opportunities into trophies remains their biggest challenge.
Also Read: Milestone Alert: THESE PBKS Cricketers Eye Big Personal Feats In High-Stakes RCB Clash