The stage is set for an electrifying finale in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, June 3. It’s a high-stakes clash not just for the coveted IPL trophy but for legacy, pride, and history.
What makes this contest even more thrilling is that neither RCB nor PBKS has lifted the IPL title despite being part of the league since its inaugural season in 2008. This final presents both teams a golden opportunity to break the jinx and finally taste championship glory.
With several in-form players on both sides, fans can expect a fiercely competitive match. One player will rise above the rest and earn the prestigious Player of the Match award—an accolade that often defines careers and goes down in IPL folklore.
A Look Back: IPL Final Player of the Match Winners (2008–2024)
Here’s a look at the players who made the biggest impact in previous IPL finals and took home the Player of the Match award:
- 2008 – Yusuf Pathan (Rajasthan Royals vs CSK): 56 (39) & 3/22
- 2009 – Anil Kumble (RCB vs Deccan Chargers): 4/16
- 2010 – Suresh Raina (CSK vs MI): 57 (35) & 1/21
- 2011 – Murali Vijay (CSK vs RCB): 95 (52)
- 2012 – Manvinder Bisla (KKR vs CSK): 89 (48)
- 2013 – Kieron Pollard (MI vs CSK): 60* (32) & 1/34
- 2014 – Manish Pandey (KKR vs Kings XI Punjab): 94 (50)
- 2015 – Rohit Sharma (MI vs CSK): 50 (26)
- 2016 – Ben Cutting (SRH vs RCB): 39* (15) & 2/35
- 2017 – Krunal Pandya (MI vs Rising Pune Supergiant): 47 (38)
- 2018 – Shane Watson (CSK vs SRH): 117* (57)
- 2019 – Jasprit Bumrah (MI vs CSK): 2/14
- 2020 – Trent Boult (MI vs DC): 3/30
- 2021 – Faf du Plessis (CSK vs KKR): 86 (59)
- 2022 – Hardik Pandya (GT vs RR): 34 (30) & 3/17
- 2023 – Devon Conway (CSK vs GT): 47 (25)
- 2024 – Mitchell Starc (KKR vs SRH): 2/14
Who Will Be the Hero in IPL 2025 Final?
As history shows, the Player of the Match in the IPL final often plays a game-changing role—either through a blistering knock, a lethal bowling spell, or an all-round performance. Will it be a big-name star or a surprise package who rises to the occasion on June 3?
With both RCB and PBKS eager to end their title droughts, expect fireworks on the field and a performance for the ages. All eyes are on Ahmedabad as the IPL 2025 final promises to be one for the history books.
