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The 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) ended on an emotional high as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally broke their 18-year-long title drought. Under the leadership of Rajat Patidar and with the presence of ever-passionate Virat Kohli, RCB lifted their first IPL trophy, sparking celebrations among millions of fans. The season was packed with edge-of-the-seat thrillers, remarkable comebacks, and standout individual performances that left the cricketing fraternity buzzing.
Irfan Pathan reveals his best XII of IPL 2025
With the tournament wrapped up, former India all-rounder and current cricket analyst Irfan Pathan unveiled his best playing twelve of the season. Sharing his picks on his YouTube channel, Pathan acknowledged that the 2025 season witnessed a host of stellar performances, making the selection process a tough nut to crack. Nonetheless, he curated a balanced squad, blending firepower with consistency, and handed the captaincy reins to Punjab Kings‘ leader, Shreyas Iyer.
Virat Kohli and Sai Sudharsan to open
Pathan opted for an experienced yet in-form opening pair, with Kohli and Sai Sudharsan shouldering the responsibility at the top. Sudharsan, the highest run-getter of the season, smashed 759 runs in 15 matches, while Kohli amassed 657 runs in his 15 appearances—both anchoring their teams with exceptional poise. England’s Jos Buttler found himself at No. 3, offering explosive middle-over acceleration.
Shreyas Iyer picked as captain; Suryakumar Yadav in the middle
Iyer, who had an impactful season both as a batter and as a leader, was Pathan’s pick for the captaincy. The PBKS skipper notched up 604 runs in 17 innings and guided his team to the final. Suryakumar Yadav, known for his 360-degree strokeplay, was also included in the mix after a stunning 717-run campaign. South African powerhouse Heinrich Klaasen, with his ability to clear the ropes under pressure, was selected as the wicketkeeper ahead of veteran MS Dhoni.
Mumbai Indians‘ rising star Naman Dheer earned a well-deserved spot for his all-round impact, while RCB’s Krunal Pandya added left-arm spin and depth with the bat. Afghanistan’s crafty spinner Noor Ahmed was also given the nod, offering a potent spin option for middle overs.
Also SEE: In Pics: RCB players celebrate with family members after historic IPL 2025 title win
Lethal pace trio completes the XI
In the fast-bowling department, Pathan stayed true to the numbers and performances. Prasidh Krishna, who emerged as the Purple Cap winner with 25 wickets in 15 matches, spearheaded the pace attack. Australian seamer Josh Hazlewood, with 22 wickets, and India’s pace sensation Jasprit Bumrah, who bagged 18 scalps, completed a formidable fast-bowling lineup.
Irfan Pathan’s Best XII of IPL 2025:
- Openers: Virat Kohli, Sai Sudharsan
- Top order: Jos Buttler
- Middle order: Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Suryakumar Yadav, Heinrich Klaasen (WK)
- All-rounders: Naman Dheer, Krunal Pandya
- Bowlers: Noor Ahmed, Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood, Prasidh Krishna
Also READ: From Virat Kohli to Shreyas Iyer: Team of the tournament for IPL 2025
