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The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 came to an electrifying end as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally broke their title drought by winning their first-ever IPL trophy. In a thrilling final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, RCB triumphed over Punjab Kings (PBKS) under the effective leadership of Rajat Patidar, who took charge mid-season and guided his team to glory.
Navjot Singh Sidhu picks Rohit Sharma as captain
Following the tournament’s conclusion, former cricketer and commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu revealed his IPL 2025 Best XI — a star-studded lineup featuring players who delivered consistent match-winning performances throughout the season. In a slightly unexpected move, Sidhu picked Rohit Sharma as the captain of the team, despite Mumbai Indians stalwart playing solely as a batter this season. The decision raised eyebrows, but Sidhu backed the veteran’s leadership acumen and experience.
Opening the innings in Sidhu’s XI are two modern-day greats: Rohit and Virat Kohli. Kohli had another prolific season with the bat, anchoring several of RCB’s innings en route to their maiden title. The duo brings stability, experience, and flair to the top order.
Power-packed middle order
At number three, Sidhu slotted in England’s Jos Buttler, who had a stellar season as Gujarat Titans’ batting lynchpin. Following him are Shreyas Iyer and Nicholas Pooran — two players known for their ability to accelerate and absorb pressure in equal measure. Iyer played a key role for PBKS guiding them to the finals.
Also READ: Kavya Maran signs rising Mumbai Indians star after IPL 2025
All-round core and balanced bowling attack
The middle and lower order are reinforced by the Pandya brothers — Hardik and Krunal. While Hardik contributed with crucial spells and timely knocks for Mumbai, Krunal’s versatility with the bat and ball added depth to RCB’s title winning campaign.
The bowling unit selected by Sidhu reflects a well-rounded mix of pace and spin. Afghan spinner Noor Ahmad, known for his guile and economy, is the lone wrist spinner in the XI. The pace trio of Prasidh Krishna, Jasprit Bumrah, and Josh Hazlewood makes for a fearsome attack. Bumrah led the MI bowling department brilliantly once again, while Hazlewood’s disciplined spells and Prasidh’s bounce made them reliable options in pressure situations.
Navjot Singh Sidhu’s IPL 2025 XI: Rohit Sharma (captain), Virat Kohli, Jos Buttler, Shreyas Iyer, Nicholas Pooran, Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya, Noor Ahmad, Prasidh Krishna, Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood.
Also READ: IPL 2025: Best XI of uncapped players ft. Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Digvesh Rathi
