RCB vs PBKS: Sourav Ganguly predicts the IPL 2025 winner

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) has reached its grand finale, with just one game left to crown a new champion. This year’s edition is guaranteed to produce a first-time winner, as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) gear up for a historic clash. The much-anticipated final will take place on June 3 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, promising an electrifying end to an action-packed season. Ahead of the mega event, former India captain and legendary batter Sourav Ganguly has weighed in on the title showdown. Known for his cricketing acumen and sharp insights, Ganguly shared his views on both teams and what fans can expect in the final.

Sourav Ganguly predicts the IPL 2025 winner

With both RCB and PBKS searching for their maiden IPL title, Ganguly emphasized the importance of composure, handling pressure, and rising to the occasion on the biggest stage. He also praised the captains — Virat Kohli’s inspiring leadership for RCB throughout the season and Shreyas Iyer’s tactical brilliance for PBKS — as vital factors in their respective teams’ success. As anticipation builds for a thrilling conclusion, Ganguly’s remarks have only heightened excitement among fans looking forward to a fiercely contested IPL 2025 Final.

As the IPL 2025 final draws near, cricket experts and analysts have openly shared their predictions on who might lift the trophy. However, former BCCI president and legendary Indian cricketer Sourav Ganguly has chosen not to pick a favorite. Instead, he acknowledged the remarkable journey of both Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings, praising the consistency, resilience, and teamwork that brought them to this defining moment. Ganguly noted that both sides have been equally impressive throughout the season, making the final a truly even contest.

Rather than siding with one team, Ganguly focused on the balance and depth each franchise brings to the field. He also offered insights into key players who are expected to make a major impact during the grand finale, particularly Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer. Kohli has been in sublime form, leading RCB with intensity and purpose, while Iyer has showcased leadership maturity and played a crucial role in PBKS’s journey to the final. Ganguly highlighted how both these stars have delivered standout performances this season and could be game-changers in the final showdown. His balanced perspective reflects the unpredictable nature of the contest, adding to the excitement surrounding the IPL 2025 climax.

“Both are good teams. Both teams have played very well this year. You can't tell in advance what will happen in T20 cricket. But Punjab is outstanding. The way they beat Mumbai Indians. Shreyas Iyer is incredible. Both teams are equally good. The team that plays well will win,” stated former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly. 

“There's always pressure at this level, not just on Kohli but on everyone. He's played World Cups and won them. He's an impeccable cricketer. This is just another big match for him. Shreyas batted brilliantly. Keeping a cool head under pressure is the hallmark of a real match winner," he added.

In addition to lauding the star performers, former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly also took a moment to appreciate the emerging talents who have left a strong impression during the IPL 2025 season. While he acknowledged the consistent brilliance of experienced players like Shreyas Iyer and Rajat Patidar — both of whom have been instrumental in guiding their teams to the final — Ganguly emphasized that the tournament’s true success lies in the rise of young, promising cricketers.

He highlighted the impactful performances of several rising stars who have stepped up in high-pressure situations and delivered when it mattered the most. Among them, Priyansh Arya, Jitesh Sharma, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, and Dewald Brevis earned special praise from the former skipper. These players have not only contributed significantly to their teams’ success but have also showcased maturity and flair that belie their limited experience at the top level. Ganguly pointed out that such performances are crucial for the long-term growth of Indian and international cricket, as they reflect the strong pipeline of future stars. With several youngsters proving their mettle this season, Ganguly expressed optimism about the exciting future of the sport, especially with such talent shining on one of the biggest stages in cricket.

“Nehal Wadhera has played well. Shreyas Iyer has been rediscovered. Apart from that, Priyansh Arya, RCB's Jitesh Sharma, Rajat Patidar, Dewald Brevis have impressed, and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, talented young boy. We must give him time,” Ganguly concluded.