Royal Challengers Bengaluru have marched into the IPL final for the fourth time, nearly a decade after their last appearance in 2016. The long wait came to an end in IPL 2025, as RCB thrashed Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 to secure a direct ticket to the final. In a dominant display, Bengaluru bowled out PBKS for just 101 runs, showcasing their depth and discipline with the ball. The modest target was chased down in just 10 overs, with opener Phil Salt smashing an unbeaten 57 off 26 deliveries, guiding the team home. With this win, RCB will now play the final against Punjab Kings on Tuesday , their fourth appearance in an IPL final. However, the trophy has continued to elude the Bengaluru-based franchise despite several close attempts.
Their journey in IPL finals so far:2009: Royal Challengers Bengaluru reached their first-ever final, facing Deccan Chargers in Johannesburg. Chasing a target of 144, RCB fell agonisingly short, ending at 137 for 9 and losing the final by 6 runs.2011: RCB made their second final appearance, this time against Chennai Super Kings. Batting first, CSK piled up 205 for 5. In response, RCB struggled to build momentum and finished at 147 for 8, losing by 58 runs.2016: In their third final, RCB took on Sunrisers Hyderabad in a high-scoring encounter. SRH posted 208 for 7, and despite a strong start in the chase, RCB managed 200 for 7 falling short by 8 runs in yet another heartbreak.Quiz: Who’s that IPL player? Now in 2025, RCB have a golden opportunity to rewrite their legacy. As they prepare to take on Punjab Kings who themselves chasing a first title , the big question remains: can Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally break the jinx and bring the trophy home? Tuesday’s final could be the chapter where years of near-misses are finally laid to rest.
