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The IPL 2025 final is set for a historic showdown as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) face Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. Both teams, since their inception in 2008, have never lifted the coveted trophy, making this clash a guaranteed coronation for a new champion. Amidst the anticipation and nerves, former Punjab Kings captain Virender Sehwag added a dash of humour and superstition to the pre-match buzz with his unique prediction and self-deprecating wit.
Virender Sehwag backs a franchise to be the IPL 2025 winner but with a twist
Sehwag, known as much for his fearless batting as his candid commentary, openly declared his support for RCB ahead of the final. Yet, with a mischievous grin, he confessed that his support has often spelled doom for the teams he backs.
“I think RCB will win. I have gone back to my old form because I have seen the team I support tend to lose, be it GT in the match against MI or Punjab Kings in the Qualifier 1 against RCB. Today, I supported MI vs PBKS in qualifier 2; they lost their matches,” Sehwag quipped on Cricbuzz.
He doubled down when asked whom he was supporting, reiterating his backing for RCB, but with a caveat: “This is also the case with the Indian team. When I openly supported them, they went on to lose that match,”
Sehwag’s tongue-in-cheek admission has fans speculating whether his “reverse jinx” could finally bring luck to Punjab Kings, the team he once captained. His playful prophecy has only heightened the intrigue around a final already loaded with emotion and anticipation.
Also READ: IPL 2025 Final: RCB vs PBKS, Head-to-Head Record, Narendra Modi Stadium T20 Stats
Virat Kohli’s last dance or PBKS’ redemption?
Beyond Sehwag’s antics lies a narrative rich in heartbreak and hope. For RCB, this is their fourth IPL final after near-misses in 2009, 2011, and 2016. The franchise, led by the indomitable Virat Kohli for much of its history, has built a legacy of passionate cricket and agonizing near-misses. Kohli, who has given 18 years to RCB, stands on the brink of what could be his most cherished triumph. His performances this season have been stellar, and a title win would be a fitting capstone to his illustrious IPL journey.
Punjab, on the other hand, are in only their second final after 2014. Their journey this season has been marked by resilience, with Shreyas Iyer’s leadership and the team’s explosive batting lineup overcoming formidable opponents to reach this stage. Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance and vulnerability, making the final a true toss-up.
RCB enter with the psychological edge, having beaten PBKS comprehensively in Qualifier 1 and leading the season head-to-head 2-1. Yet, PBKS’s ability to bounce back, as seen in their high-pressure chase against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2, means they cannot be discounted. The Ahmedabad pitch and possible weather disruptions add another layer of unpredictability to this already dramatic contest.
Also READ: RCB vs PBKS: Probable XI, Pitch & Weather report for the IPL 2025 Final
