All eyes are on the weather at Lord’s for the 2025 World Test Championship (WTC) Final between Australia and South Africa. The forecast has slowly improved over the past few days, but there still a possibility of rain having a say throughout the match.
Cool conditions are forecast for the first two days, which may favour bowling depending on the surface. There is a chance of showers early in the Test as well. There is also a reserve day in place should inclement conditions impact the match.
Lord’s weather forecast: Will rain impact the 2025 WTC Final?
According to AccuWeather, the weather at Lord’s looks promising for the 2025 WTC Final. Day one is forecast for “pleasantly warm with clouds and sunshine” with a top of 24 degrees and only 8% chance of precipitation.
However, day two are where the showers may interrupt proceedings. AccuWeather predicts 1.3mm of rain to fall in the morning, but none in the afternoon, which is welcome news. The cloudy conditions all day could also make batting quite tricky in this mid-June Test.
Lord’s London weather forecast for days 1 and 2.
The remainder of the Test looks excellent. Day three (Friday) sees a top of 27 degrees with a “partly sunny and very warm” forecast. Saturday’s forecast is similar, reading “sun through high clouds and remaining warm.” Sunday (day five) is cooler, but rain is expected to stay away as well.
Lord’s London weather forecast for days 3-5.
The warmer conditions surely means Australia and South Africa will select a specialist spinner. There has been talk of a full pace attack for both teams, but Nathan Lyon and Keshav Maharaj can play important roles as conditions dry out later in the Test.
South Africa play with the Kookaburra ball. Australia play with the Kookaburra ball. But when those two men’s teams meet in the WTC final at Lord’s next week the ball will be a Dukes – which has a more pronounced seam than the Kookaburra, which makes it move more off the pitch, and is coated in lacquer that makes it swing more.
2025 WTC Final: Squads and match information
Australia squad: Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon, Matt Kuhnemann. Travelling reserve: Brendan Doggett
South Africa squad: Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy
2025 WTC Final Preview: Lord’s Stats and Predicted XIs
Lord’s Venue Analysis:
In the eight Tests played since 2020, teams batting first have won three, while those fielding first have won four.
Australia (2023) and South Africa (2022) have each won their only Test at Lord’s in this period.
2025 WTC Final: Batting average in Tests at Lord’s since 2018.
As seen in the graph, batting at Lord’s has become relatively easier in the post-COVID era. From 2020 onwards, the average runs per wicket has risen to 29.63, paired with a scoring rate of 3.48 runs per over.
2025 WTC Final: Innings-wise batting averages in Tests at Lord’s since 2020.
The data reveals that batting in the second and fourth innings at Lord’s has been relatively easier since 2020. However, it must be noted that England have batted in the second or fourth innings most of the time, contributing to the higher figures.
Cameron Green’s sensational county form has virtually cemented his place in Australia’s XI for the upcoming World Test Championship final. Turning out for Gloucestershire, Green has piled up three centuries along with an unbeaten 67 across just eight innings while batting at number five. These performances mark his return to competitive cricket following back surgery last October.
Cameron Green’s recent form.
Ahead of the team’s departure to England, Australia head coach Andrew McDonald spoke on SEN radio, confirming that Steven Smith will retain his place at number four. He also noted Green’s versatility, saying the all-rounder is capable of batting anywhere within the top six. However, Green will be unavailable to bowl in the WTC final.
Green’s inclusion is likely to cause a ripple effect in Australia’s batting order. Travis Head, who had opened in Sri Lanka, is set to move back to number five. This shift leaves Usman Khawaja in need of yet another opening partner, having recently paired with the likes of Smith, Head, Konstas, and Nathan McSweeney across Australia’s last three Test series.
Webster, who made a solid impression on debut against India, has had a mixed stint with Warwickshire. In four matches, he chipped in with the ball, taking 10 wickets at an average of 27.80, and scored 85 in his first knock. However, he hasn’t crossed fifty since, and whether he retains his spot at Lord’s will depend on the pitch and the value selectors place on a fifth bowling option.
McDonald was asked whether Labuschagne could open in the WTC final given he has never opened the batting in Test cricket, but he did not give a definitive answer. “You watch the dismissals and it’s isolated incidents that you don’t know what he’s doing in the background, how it looks in the nets, how he’s moving,” McDonald said.
“That’ll be the key part of all of it is to see where they’re at in front of us and what those sort of last seven days of prep look like to make good decisions for us.” Konstas has never played Test cricket in England, which could count against him in this one-off Test. Labuschagne, on the other hand, not only brings broader First Class experience but has also played 10 Tests in England, averaging 39.37.
South Africa’s Predicted XI
South Africa, meanwhile, have a pleasant selection headache on their hands, with eight batting options available and two contentious spots — number three and either number six or seven. Head coach Shukri Conrad has confirmed that Aiden Markram will open alongside Ryan Rickelton. That leaves one of Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, and Wiaan Mulder in line to bat at number three, while that same trio, along with David Bedingham, are candidates for a middle-order role at number six. Judging by how they lined up at Arundel, it appears Mulder will bat at number three, Stubbs at five and Bedingham six with Tony de Zorzi likely to sit out.
South Africa’s Predicted XI: 1. Ryan Rickelton, 2. Aiden Markram, 3. Wiaan Mulder, 4. Temba Bavuma, 5. Tristan Stubbs, 6. David Bedingham, 7. Kyle Verreynne, 8. Marco Jansen, 9. Keshav Maharaj, 10. Kagiso Rabada, 11. Lungi Ngidi
Key stats
45 – Australia’s Test match win percentage at Lord’s. No team, not even England (40.68) has a better record at the Home of Cricket than the Aussies. Australia have claimed 18 wins from 40 matches at Lord’s in more than 140 years of Test cricket, which is far superior to South Africa’s 33.33 per cent from 18 Tests at the same venue.
1 – Test matches South Africa have lost at Lord’s since readmission to international cricket in 1991. From seven Tests at the north London venue, they have won five and drawn one, with their only loss coming in 2017. They beat England by an innings inside three days in their last match at Lord’s in 2022.
7 – The Proteas’ Test winning streak entering the WTC final, beating West Indies, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan to top the standings with a points percentage of 69.44.
Player’s stats at Lord’s
Australian batters at Lord’s:
2025 WTC Final: Australian batters at Lord’s
Australian bowlers at Lord’s:
2025 WTC Final: Australian bowlers at Lord’s
South Africa batters at Lord’s:
2025 WTC Final: South African batters at Lord’s
South Africa bowlers at Lord’s:
2025 WTC Final: South African bowlers at Lord’s
AUS vs SA: Head-to-head Matchups
Kagiso Rabadavs Australian batters:
2025 WTC Final: Kagiso Rabada has good numbers against Smith and Khawaja.
Lungi Ngidivs Australian batters:
Lungi Ngidi is yet to dismiss any Australian batter in Test cricket.
Marco Jansen vs Australian batters:
2025 WTC Final: Marco Jansen is key for South Africa.
Pat Cummins vs South Africa batters:
2025 WTC Final: Pat Cummins has had success against Aiden Markram
Josh Hazlewood vs South Africa batters
2025 WTC Final: Josh Hazlewood will be vital for Australia.
Mitchell Starc vs South Africa batters
2025 WTC Final: South Africa’s batters have done well against Mitchell Starc in the past.
The build up to the 2025 World Test Championship (WTC) Final is gathering momentum, with Australia and South Africa getting their respective preparation in order for the big clash. Part of that preparation will involve studying the opposition to identify potential chinks as well as the key players to get the better of.
There are a number of head-to-head player battles that could decide the 2025 WTC Final. Both teams possess excellent pace bowlers, and they will be of particular focus as conditions are expected to favour seam in this mid-June match at Lord’s.
Head-to-head player battles to watch out for in the 2025 WTC Final
Here is a look at five key player battles, along with other matchups to keep an eye on.
Kagiso Rabada vs Steve Smith
Kagiso Rabada has been in a thorn in Australia’s side in the past. He is not taking a backwards step once again, claiming “they [Australia] have been notorious for that [sledging] over the years” in the lead up to the Lord’s showdown.
Also, soon after South Africa qualified for the WTC Final, Rabada spoke about how the similar styles of the two sides brings the Proteas into the contest.
“South Africa versus Australia has always been an intense rivalry, because we play cricket quite similar. We play hard – and they’re going to come hard at us, and we know that. But we also know how to beat them,” Rabada said earlier this year.
The stage is set for Rabada to go hard at the Australians. And, he may just crank up the pace a little more when Steve Smith walks out to the middle. The two have had some great battles in Test cricket, and Rabada has largely kept Australia’s great number four in check. In 262 balls, Rabada has dismissed Smith four times for128 runs.
Smith’s wicket is vital and Rabada needs to lead the charge. The runs have flowed for Smith since returning to number four, with four centuries in his last five Tests. Also, Smith averages 58.33 in five Tests at Lord’s, including two fifties and two hundreds.
Rabada also has good numbers against Travis Head (2/56 off 49 balls) and Usman Khawaja (5/154 off 319 balls).
Key player battles to watch out for in the WTC 2025 Final: Will Kagiso Rabada get the better of Australia?
Josh Hazlewood vs Temba Bavuma
Skipper Temba Bavuma has been a consistent performer for South Africa. Since the start of 2021, Bavuma has struck 1,690 runs at an average of 49.7. This includes ten fifties and three centuries in 40 innings.
While there is plenty of exciting talent in the South African lineup, Bavuma will be tasked with leading from the front. He has fared decently against Pat Cummins (1/56 off 137 balls) and Mitchell Starc (2/89 off 158 balls) on some very tricky batting surfaces, and will be looking to do the same again.
Josh Hazlewood, with his immaculate line and length, will look to catch the shoulder of Bavuma’s bat regularly. In 118 balls, Hazlewood has dismissed Bavuma twice, conceding just 46 in the process. However, Bavuma has faced just one delivery from Hazlewood since 2018, but the importance of this matchup remains given Hazlewood’s form and attributes, plus Bavuma’s importance.
Key player battles to watch out for in the WTC 2025 Final: Temba Bavuma has been solid in recent years.
Mitchell Starc vs Ryan Rickelton
2025 has been a fine year for Ryan Rickelton. He smashed 259 in the New Year’s Test against Pakistan, helped lead MI Cape Town to the SA20 title, and was solid at the top for Mumbai Indians in their run to the IPL 2025 playoffs.
A Test against the Australian attack is a different kettle of fish, but Rickelton is full of confidence and will take the challenge head on. Australia need his wicket early, and Mitchell Starc could be the man to do it.
In the 134 balls he has faced against left-arm pace in Tests, Rickelton averages 32 with a strike rate of 47.8. Against right-arm pace, he averages 35.4 with a healthier strike rate of 58.1.
Marco Jansen vs Marnus Labuschagne
Marnus Labsuchagne, who is tipped to open the batting, is under pressure to perform. Marco Jansen will be sure to test Labuschagne, who has had his issues against left-arm pace in the past, including Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Overall in Tests, Labuschagne has been dismissed ten times by left-arm seam at an average of 32.8 and strike rate of 45.4. This includes a matchup of 1/19 off 58 balls against Jansen.
Key player battles to watch out for in the WTC 2025 Final: Marnus Labuschagne is under pressure.
Pat Cummins vs Aiden Markram
Aiden Markram is crucial to South Africa’s chances. The opener has shown glimpses of his best throughout his career, but an average of 35.71 reflects his inconsistency.
However, Markram took Australia on in 2018 and won. He averaged 60.00 in the four matches, and fared well against Josh Hazlewood (2/100 off 191 balls) and Mitchell Starc (1/82 off 112 balls). He is capable of producing the goods again.
If Markram is on, Pat Cummins could be Australia’s best bet to break his rhythm. Cummins has dismissed Markram four timesin 123 balls, conceding 90 runs in the process.
So, there are some of the key player battles to watch out for in the WTC 2025 Final. Australia are aiming for their second-straight title, while South Africa are after that elusive ICC title.
Fans in Australia require an Amazon Prime Video subscription to watch the 2025 World Test Championship (WTC) Final.
The WTC 2023 Final between Australia and India was broadcast on free-to-air via Channel 7. However, Amazon now have the rights after landing a deal with the International Cricket Council (ICC) in December 2023 for all major events, including the WTC Final, plus men’s and women’s ODI and T20 World Cups as well.
According to reports, Channel 7 has been lobbying to show the WTC Final, but are blocked due to a legislative loophole. A report in The Australian stated that because because Pat Cummins’ team is facing South Africa – rather than England or India – the match has been locked away exclusively for Amazon.
Free trial available for new Amazon Prime Video members to watch WTC 2025 Final
Fans can take advantage of Amazon Prime Video’s 30-day free trial to watch the WTC 2025 Final. Also, the platform will offer “a choice of exclusive 10 or 25-minute highlights on Prime Video or a full play replay from the first ball available immediately after play” for those fans looking to catch up on the action.
Play will begin at 7:30pm (AEST). There will be a reserve day on June 16 in case rain plays a part.
Australia are aiming for the second-straight WTC title after beating India at The Oval in 2023. There are question marks around the make up of the top three, but coach Andrew McDonald says Australia are “hoping to bed those [decisions] down early and give guys clarity leading into that WTC Final,” as quoted by cricket.com.au.
South Africa will be a tough test. The Proteas possess an excellent pace attack, plus the added motivation of winning a first ICC title since the 1998 Champions Trophy.
Sign up here for an Amazon Prime Video 30-day free trial.
After a 17-year cycle of hope, heartbreak and then hope again, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are finally champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), courtesy of a six-run win in the 2025 final against Punjab Kings (PBKS).
Tears flowed from Virat Kohli’s face; the man who has been there from the very beginning. He has given so much to this franchise and has ridden the waves – some very rocky waves at times – all the way to the shore of an IPL title after 18 long years.
RCB win IPL 2025: The moment Virat Kohli realised he’s an IPL winner.
RCB fans had to pinch themselves in excitement, wondering if this is all just a beautiful dream. It’s certainly reality, with ee sala cup namde (this year the cup is ours) coming true.
RCB produced the goods on the field, but the seeds were planted off it. After months of planning and sound tactical appointments, RCB entered the IPL 2025 mega auction with a clear strategy as to the make up of their squad: A champion team, rather than a team of champions.
While other franchises made headline-grabbing purchases, RCB quietly went about their business, building a roster based on balance, consistency, and most importantly, decisive thinking in terms of how they perceived the style of play would be.
It didn’t come without the doubters. Krunal Pandya’s purchase was questioned on social media. Few wondered whether Bhuvneshwar Kumar still had enough in the tank to help take RCB to the next level. RCB not bidding for KL Rahul was also a hot talking point, as was the decision to appoint Rajat Patidar as captain. And, who could forget Akash Ambani’s infamous handshakes to RCB representatives at their auction table after Mumbai Indians secured the services of former player Will Jacks.
RCB win IPL 2025: Handshakes for the eventual champions.
Why RCB won IPL 2025: Brilliance both on and off the field
However, all that was just noise to a franchise zoned in. RCB knew what they were doing in the attempt to build on regular playoff appearances since 2020. Rarely have RCB been short of champion talent over the years, but they’ve often relied on a few players. 2025 was a different story, with a real team effort both on and off the field.
RCB management produce the goods
RCB’s management deserve their “flowers”. Andy Flower can add another magnificent achievement to a magnificent coaching CV. Wherever he goes, success follows, and he will forever remain in RCB folklore.
Andy Flower is one of the very best coaches in the game. If not the best.
His CV:
England #1 Test side England won Ashes in AUS England won Test series in IND Won T20 WC with England Won PSL with Multan Won Hundred with Trent Rockets Won UAE ILT20 with Gulf Giants LSG reach…
Flower’s cricketing prowess is up there with the best, but it’s his management skills that sets him apart. His relationship with Mo Bobat, Director of Cricket, has proven to be a huge factor to RCB’s success. Having two senior members of the leadership group on the same page is the envy of some of the other franchises, where strategic nous is lacking.
“Nobody gets everything they want at an auction. It’s pretty much impossible. But I think we got predominantly what we wanted in terms of playing personnel,” said Bobat in Episode 1 of RCB’s Journey to the Finale.
“But more importantly, with the actual shape of the team and the vision of that team that Andy [Flower] and I spent so much time thinking about and talking about, we pretty much nailed that. And that’s probably been the satisfying thing this season – that you get to see that come to life on the field.”
Mo Bobat has been UNREAL with his auction strategies. Saving his money for day 2 with Krunal, Bhuvi picks was genius. Added experience and economical bowlers instead of chasing stars. And one of those 2 won them the final. pic.twitter.com/BJjE7kOFg4
Flower echoed those sentiments post the IPL 2025 Final against Punjab Kings. “Mo Bobat is a very impressive man. I’ve worked with him a little bit with the England Cricket Board when we both worked for England,” said Flower in the post-match press conference.
“For such a young man to have such insight and knowledge and drive; he’s incredibly impressive. I think his leadership over the last couple of years… it’s been really impressive to be close to him while he’s been leading like he does. He’s got a great brain, he’s a good strategist, and he’s a good man. So I’ve got tons of respect for him.”
Also, RCB’s appointments in the coaching and strategic department held them in great stead. Dinesh Karthik’s role and influence as batting coach was clear to see this season, with the likes of Tim David, Jitesh Sharma, and Romario Shepherd displaying the kind of finishing that made Karthik a prominent figure in the IPL.
How coaches matter:
Dinesh Karthik reinevented his game as a death pace hitter in 2017-18. It was very difficult role and he had to study power-hitting in depth along with the tricks to find angles and empty spaces on the field. He conveyed all that as a 'batting tactics coach' pic.twitter.com/XHo88mLvlj
— Soubhagya Chatterjee (@c_soubhagya) June 4, 2025
Omkar Salvi as the bowling coach was also a sound appointment before the auction. A successful coach in the Indian domestic circuit, Salvi oversaw RCB’s strongest-ever attack perform on a regular basis in IPL 2025, including in the final where the pressure was intense.
Also, the appointment of analyst Freddie Wilde highlights where RCB are at. Wilde, part of the editorial team at CricViz, has been critical of RCB in the past, most notably after the 2018 season.
“You have 8.5 million pounds to build a T20 team. You really shouldn’t end up with Corey Anderson bowling your death overs. But at Royal Challengers Bangalore in the 2018 IPL, that is exactly what happened: not just once, but in three different matches,” Wilde wrote in his book Cricket 2.0: Inside the T20 Revolution.
“When Coulter-Nile was ruled out weeks before the season, RCB’s squad was already loaded with powerful overseas batsmen. But rather than replace Coulter-Nile with another bowler, RCB plumped for Anderson instead. ‘Corey plays a bold game and has incredible potential,’ explained RCB’s head coach Daniel Vettori. The statement had corporate fingerprints all over it: that season Bangalore’s official hashtag was #PlayBold.”
Knowing Wilde’s views, it would have been easy for RCB to look elsewhere for an analyst. After all, such critique, while constructive and justified, can be ego-bruising. Instead, RCB hired Wilde as their Head of Analysis in 2023, and they have bore the fruits.
The Freddie Wilde story is a great one. Constructive & justified critique of RCB over the years, the franchise then hires him as an analyst and he plays an important role in helping them win the trophy.@fwildecricket 👏 pic.twitter.com/H8OYX2IKqu
Day 6,255 of RCB’s existence is their most memorable. Since their first IPL match on April 18, 2008, RCB have experienced heartbreak and disappointment in equal measure. After reaching three IPL finals – with the last being in 2016 – RCB endured three poor years between 2017 and 2019 that required a shift in mindset.
From the 2020 season in the UAE until now, RCB have been much better on the bowling front. This was the cornerstone of their 2025 season, with the bowling attack working as a unit regularly, with meticulous preparation, planning and execution the hallmark of this champion team.
RCB knew their matchups. From Suyash Sharma to Andre Russell in match one to Josh Hazlewood to Shreyas Iyer in the playoffs, RCB had everything covered. They nailed their lengths at different stages. Krunal Pandya, the only player to win man of the match in two separate IPL Finals, built pressure with every passing delivery thanks to immaculate control of speed and length.
The left-arm spinner was magnificent all season. He just took it up a notch in the game that mattered most. Krunal took the tenth-most wickets this season and had the seventh-best economy rate (among bowlers who bowled 25+ overs). When you have Krunal in this mood, Suyash Sharma, who also performed admirably in IPL 2025, has more room for error. Plus, with Krunal following up the powerplay exploits Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal, the seemingly below-par 190 quickly looked a distant destination for PBKS, a fate realised by various teams throughout a campaign where RCB were simply outstanding away from the Chinnaswamy.
Defensive bowling in T20s deserve an award of its own. Whatever the color of the cap. Great season, capped off by one hell of a spell. pic.twitter.com/ZURwWENfOo
Onto the seam trio. Hazlewood had a season to remember. 22 wickets and endless impact. The 22 runs he conceded off the inconsequential final four balls equated to 15.28% of the total runs he conceded in his last four matches, which included matchwinning spells against RR (4/33) and 3/21 against PBKS in Qualifier 1.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar played a key role in the final, conceding just seven runs and taking two crucial wickets in the 17th over to give RCB a hand on the trophy. The 10.75cr investment in Saudi Arabia on November 25 was well and truly justified as his experience was invaluable, especially in the crunch overs in the crunch games.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar. The same old point that one made two days back. He may not swing it (conventional) like he used to. But his wisdom of experience helped him to find ways at crucial moments. A very repeatable action, watches the feet of the batter like a hawk at back foot…
In terms of comeback stories, Yash Dayal’s is one to savour. Two years ago, Dayal was hit for five sixes in a row by Rinku Singh, leaving him distraught. Fast forward to 2025, and Dayal was crowned an IPL champion on the same turf, delivering the kind of poise and control in the death overs that has served RCB so well. It happened to be the case again in the final.
RCB’s batting unit clicks
This current RCB unit doesn’t have the big names of yesteryear. There was also the concern that too many right-handers may allow opponents to get their measure. However, both of those factors were soon thrown out the window as RCB found their batting groove early and rarely lost it.
Phil Salt, so dominant for KKR in their title-winning campaign in 2024, produced the same impact for RCB. The right-hander smashed 318 runs in the powerplay at a strike rate of 174.7. Virat Kohli, who was uncharacteristically circumspect in the final compared to his IPL 2025 exploits, struck at 157.4 in the same phase, a marked shift from his 136.8 in 2023.
However, powerplay batting alone isn’t enough. Even Devdutt Padikkal, considered a weakness at three, produced impactful knocks before injury ended his campaign. Rajat Patidar fought for his best form at times, but began to find his range again in the crunch games. Then, the middle-to-late order really delivered.
Jitesh Sharma is an unsung hero in this RCB triumph. The keeper-batsman’s magnificent 33-ball 85* in their final league game against LSG enabled Rajat Patidar’s team to finish in the top two. Also, with RCB in danger of a significantly below-par total in the final, Jitesh contributed a crucial 10-ball 24 that gave the RCB innings a pulse.
In terms of crucial knocks, Tim David and Romario Shepherd also delivered. The duo combined for 400 runs between overs 16-20 this season at a strike rate of 186. Shepherd’s 14-ball 53 against CSK on May 3 proved vital as RCB won that match by just two runs. David was a consistent force in the early part of the season, regularly finishing innings well to put defendable totals on the board.
Like the bowling, RCB’s batting clicked as a unit, with each player clear on their role.
Rajat Patidar, the captain
Rajat Patidar went unsold in the IPL 2022 Auction. He only came in as an injury replacement for Luvnith Sisodia. In 2023, injury ruined his campaign. Less than two years later, he was asked to take on a huge assignment in his first captaincy gig in the IPL – lead a huge franchise to its first title.
And that he did. Patidar was the epitomy of calmness and composure amid the chaos of the IPL. It is a remarkable feat when you consider his only previous top-level captaincy experience was the 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last November.
With RCB focused on data, Patidar still managed to respond well to the match situation. Patidar’s bowling changes, field placements, and use of resources were spot on. An example was using Romario Shepherd early to Shreyas Iyer in the final knowing Shepherd’s ability to hit the deck. It resulted in the huge wicket of Shreyas, plus overs in hand for the frontline bowlers for the backend of the innings.
“They needed someone [as a captain] who was the opposite to how they’re perceived as a team,” said Tom Moody on the ESPNcricinfo’s Time Out show. “They needed someone that was more measured, more reserved. It doesn’t mean that you can’t play that ‘out there’, that bold cricket, which they promote and that brash brand, which is absolutely fine… but from a leadership perspective, they needed that type of personality and they’ve absolutely nailed it.”
Virat Kohli has come in for criticism for his 35-ball 43 in the IPL 2025 Final at the batting-friendly Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Kohli, in the quest of a maiden IPL title, batted conservatively with a lack of urgency to find the boundary throughout his innings.
Comparisons have been made to his innings in the 2024 T20 World Cup Final against South Africa. However, the key difference was India were three down early and in trouble. Plus, the nature of the surfaces in the Caribbean meant a score of 176 was competitive.
Here, RCB did not lose a cluster of early wickets. They were 55/1 at the end of the powerplay. On a ground with an average first innings score of 218 this season, RCB needed a push soon after the powerplay to get the run rate back to par, i.e. ten and over.
But, Virat remained conservative from the powerplay onwards, focusing on rotating strike as the first course of action. The opener struck just three fours in his 35-ball stay, leaving plenty for the others to do to get RCB to 200+.
Virat Kohli in the spotlight after knock of 43 (35) in IPL 2025 Final
PBKS had a clear plan to Virat. They maintained a back-of-a-length approach via the seamers, forcing Virat to hit square. Yuzvendra Chahal also conceded just 16 off 13 balls.
Fans, including some of Kohli’s most ardent supporters, were disappointed with his innings. Here are some of the reactions.
They kept bowling short and slow balls to Virat Kohli. Strike rate of 123 after 35 balls on this pitch is disappointing.
Kohli needs to be showing more intent – no data to prove this, but feel like this is the opposite of his recent T20 template. The attacking shots have vanished (get that wickets are down, but was the same in PP too).
Slower ones certainly sticking. Brilliant bowling from Omarzai, but Kohli had to go earlier. Should have scored more for the time he spent. 131 in close to 15 overs is indicative of a pitch which is still largely good to bat on #RCBvPBKS#IPL2025
Ends up being an under par knock. Also, credit to PBKS, even when bowling pace to Kohli, they were making him hit towards the longer square boundaries. And Kohli didn't even improvise.
At the very least, Kohli needed 10 more runs to make the knock a respectable one. https://t.co/H70v5qQrAf
— Gurkirat Singh Gill (@gurkiratsgill) June 3, 2025
Regardless of how this knock unfolds in the next 7 overs or the final result of the game, this is very surprising from Virat. He has shown great intent throughout the tournament but come the knockouts, it’s back to that pre-Covid, outdated T20 style batting. Disappointing, man https://t.co/X8IrgbszlC
Virat Kohli with one of the worst knocks in the IPL final. A 35 ball 43, SR of 122.8 on a belter. Reminds me of his horrendous fifty vs Eng in the 2022 T20 WC. Now he needs divine intervention to win the title. #RCBvsPBKS#PBKSvsRCB
Poor knock from Virat Kohli. I was one of the first ones to support his knock in the T20 World Cup final because we were 34/3. But this was an ordinary performance by his standards.
But not bad for RCB to have Jitesh in the middle at this stage. Still target 200. #IPLFinals
— Anuj Nitin Prabhu (@APTalksCricket) June 3, 2025
The pitch is a belter. RCB aren't doing themselves any favours by trying to attack only from one end.
Ravi Shastri🎙️ – "BCCI selectors are there in stands , looks like Virat Kohli is trying to impress them for his selection for ENG Test series" (laughs) pic.twitter.com/bVVgADqvuY
Afternoon showers could spice up the pitch a little depending on how long the surface is under cover for. However, Ahmedabad has been a batting paradise all season, including Qualifier 2 between PBKS and Mumbai Indians (MI) despite a delayed start due to rain.
Ahmedabad weather for IPL 2025 Final: Conditions set to be clear for huge RCB vs PBKS showdown
According to AccuWeather, the forecast is for “times of sun and clouds with a shower in the area in the afternoon.” The reliable weather platform forecasts for 1.1mm of rain to fall, with the highest chance of precipitation around 5-6pm local time.
Ahmedabad weather forecast for IPL 2025 Final: Some rain is possible from 4-6pm.
However, conditions should be clear from 7pm onwards. There is only a 2% chance of precipitation during match hours, according to AccuWeather’s hourly forecast.
Ahmedabad weather forecast for IPL 2025 Final: Conditions are set to be clear for the match.
The key question is how much dew there will be in the second innings. There are clouds around in Ahmedabad, but perhaps not enough to limit moisture on the outfield. It will make for an interesting call at the toss, but chasing is likely to be preferred given how PBKS fared in Qualifier 2 thanks mainly to an outstanding knock by Shreyas Iyer.
However, teams batting first have won six of the eight matches at Narendra Modi Stadium this season. Whichever team bats first needs a big score. The average first innings total here in IPL 2025 is 218, with 200 breached in seven of the eight games.
A long, 18-year wait is set to end for either RCB or PBKS. With numerous tactical matchups and high emotion, the stage is set for a potential classic.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) will do battle in what promises to be a magnificent IPL 2025 Final. The 18-year wait will end for one franchise, with years of heartbreak and close misses to be a thing of the past.
On paper, this looks an evenly matched contest despite RCB’s huge win over PBKS in last week’s Qualifier 1. RCB’s bowling attack has produced the goods time and again, while PBKS’ long batting lineup has given them the edge in numerous matches this season.
So, which way will this final go? There is a strong case for both teams, but RCB might just come out on top. Here are four reasons.
Will RCB go on to win the IPL 2025 Final? Here are 4 signs why they might
1. Winning Qualifier 1 goes a long way to winning the IPL title
The winner of Qualifier 1 has gone on to win the title in the last seven consecutive seasons. The trend began in 2018 where Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lifted the trophy after two years in the wilderness. Mumbai Indians (2019, 2020), CSK (2021), Gujarat Titans (2022), CSK (2023) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) all won Qualifier 1 in their title-winning years.
RCB thrashed PBKS in Qualifier 1 last week. While another thumping in the IPL 2025 Final would be a huge surprise, the extra time RCB have had to prepare could prove vital.
That said, RCB are yet to play a match at Ahmedabad this season, PBKS have played twice, including the classic victory over Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2.
2. The Josh Hazlewood factor
Josh Hazlewood has been a tower of strength for RCB in IPL 2025. Opponents have a good idea of what to expect, but Hazlewood’s impeccable control of length and ability to generate extra bounce has held RCB in great stead.
Hazlewood has the wood over Shreyas Iyer, and this matchup could go a long way in deciding the final. The pace bowler has dismissed the PBKS captain four times in 22 balls in the IPL, conceding just 11 runs in the process.
However, Shreyas is fearless and composed in equal measure. If he can get the better of this matchup, PBKS might just go on to lift the trophy.
3. RCB’s well-rounded bowling unit
Both batting lineups are filled with quality, but RCB could gain an edge thanks to their bowling. Hazlewood is part of an excellent attack that has performed well as a unit for the majority of the season, and they will be looking to do so again.
A number of RCB’s bowlers have favourable matchups. In addition to his record against Shreyas, Hazlewood has also dismissed fellow Australian Josh Inglis twice in six balls in T20s.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has good head-to-head numbers against PBKS’ key players, including Prabhsimran Singh (5/62 in 48 balls) and Shreyas Iyer (3/45 in 50 balls). Fellow seamer Yash Dayal had a good outing in Qualifier 1 and comes up against Priyansh Arya who has been dismissed by left-arm seam three times in his past five innings.
Then, the confident Suyash Sharma – player of the match in Qualifier 1 – will combine with Krunal Pandya to build pressure in the middle overs. PBKS have a long batting lineup, and they will have to be at their best.
4. Motivation to win for Virat Kohli
In addition to the tactical matchups, there is the emotional element of seeing Virat Kohli lift the IPL trophy for the first time. Kohli has come close on a few occasions in his 17 years with the franchise, and victory here would be a moment to remember.
“We will try & win this for him (Virat Kohli) – he has done so well for India & RCB over the years,” said captain Rajat Patidar on the eve of the IPL 2025 Final.
In a game that shapes up as one that could be decided by small margins, these matchups and RCB’s well-rounded unit can get them over the line.
It’s been a drought-breaking year in sports in 2025, and that trend will continue as the final of IPL 2025 will be contested between two teams who have not yet won the title. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) go head-to-head for a shot at putting years of near misses, heartbreak and disappointment behind them.
This promises to be a magnificent finale. RCB and PBKS have been terrific this season, regularly delivering in crucial moments. Both did what they needed to do to finish in the top two, and their reward now is an appearance in the big one.
RCB thrashed PBKS in Qualifier 1, but if they think it’ll be that easy again, they may have another thing coming. Led by the ever-composed and classy Shreyas Iyer, PBKS held their nerve to beat five-time champions Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2. That kind of pressure, plus the experience of playing in Ahmedabad, can serve them in good stead.
That said, RCB have the quality and unity within their ranks to get the job done. Josh Hazlewood returned in Qualifier 1 and didn’t miss a beat. Suyash Sharma built on the pressure created by the pacers, and became the ninth different RCB player to win man of the match this season. And, of course, there is the small matter of Virat Kohli at the top, desperate to get his hands on the trophy that has eluded him for 17 years.
So, who will go on to win the IPL 2025 title? A new winner is guaranteed, adding not only to the intrigue around the contest, but surely nerves as well. However, both teams have calm leaders in their ranks, and they will need to display composure of the highest order to get over the line in a game that could be decided by the barest of margins.
In this article, we will look at the possible playing XIIs, Ahmedabad pitch report, fantasy cricket tips and Dream11 prediction for the IPL 2025 Final between RCB and PBKS.
IPL 2025 Final: RCB vs PBKS Possible Playing XIIs
Tim David was pictured at an RCB training session. He is a chance of returning to the XII after injuring his hamstring before the playoffs.
Narendra Modi Stadium Ahmedabad Pitch Report and Weather
Ahmedabad has hosted eight matches in IPL 2025. The team batting first has scored 200+ on seven occasions, with an average score of 218.88. Pacers have taken 65 wickets on this ground this season. Spinners have taken 28.
Teams batting first have won six of these eight matches. However, PBKS’ victory in Qualifier 2 may encourage chasing here.
According to AccuWeather, there is a chance of an afternoon shower in Ahmedabad. In good news, the evening and night is forecast to be clear, with a top of 30 degrees.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for RCB vs PBKS: Top Picks/Key Players to Watch
Top wicket-keeper picks:
If Phil Salt gets through the Arshdeep Singh matchup, he can make a significant contribution. Salt struck 56* (27) in Qualifier 1 against PBKS, making it 175 runs in his past four innings.
Josh Inglis has been terrific in recent games. He has made scores of 30, 32, 73 and 38 in his last five outings, with the only low score against RCB in Qualifier 1. His battle against RCB’s pacers will make for fascinating viewing.
Key batter picks:
Shreyas Iyer was simply magnificent in Qualifier 2. He is a genuine captaincy option and can make a big score if he gets through the Hazlewood matchup. The PBKS captain has smashed 242 runs off 107 balls in T20s on this ground without dismissal.
A big Virat Kohli innings in an IPL Final written in the stars? He has a fantastic record in T20s on this ground: 12 inns, 477 runs, avg. 68.14, SR 137.86.
Top all-rounder picks:
Longer square boundaries can bring Krunal Pandya in the contest. RCB can look to use him against PBKS’ in-form right-handers, including Josh Inglis who has been dismissed four times by spin this season at an average of 17. Also, Shreyas strikes at just 84.3 against Krunal in the IPL.
Key bowler picks:
Josh Hazlewood is a big game player. The fast bowler has taken an impressive 21 wickets in 11 matches this season, including 3/21 in Qualifier 1. He has a dominant record against Shreyas Iyer: 22 balls, 11 runs, four wickets and has also dismissed Josh Inglis twice in six balls in T20s.
Arshdeep Singh has gone wicketless in four of his last five games. But, he remains a solid fantasy pick as he bowls in the crunch overs and has good numbers against Phil Salt.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has strong head-to-head numbers against PBKS’ key players. He has dismissed Prabhsimran Singh five times in 42 balls (68 runs) and Shreyas Iyer three times in 50 balls for just 45 runs.
Prabhsimran Singh is looking for form after scores of 21, 28, 13, 18 and 6 in his past five knocks.
Yash Dayal had an excellent outing in Qualifier 1. His battle against Priyansh Arya is important as the PBKS opener has been dismissed by left-arm seam three times in his past five games (including Dayal).
Marcus Stoinis and Azmatullah Omarzai are key players down the order for PBKS and can be called on to bowl early. Both, especially Omarzai, can get the ball to swing in the earlier overs.
Romario Shepherd can offer a good point of difference as he bowls 2-3 overs and can finish strongly with the bat. He smashed 53 off 14 balls against CSK earlier this season.
Yuzvendra Chahal has had an up-and-down season but can come in handy against Jitesh Sharma and Mayank Agarwal (see below).
Other Stats and Important Matchups
Head-to-head: RCB 18, PBKS 18.
Krunal Pandya vs Shreyas Iyer in the IPL: 51 balls, 43 runs, one dismissal.
Arshdeep Singh vs Phil Salt in all T20s: 38 balls, 38 runs, four wickets.
Yuzvendra Chahal vs Mayank Agarwal in the IPL: 51 balls, 75 runs, seven wickets.
Yuzvendra Chahal vs Jitesh Sharma in the IPL: 35 balls, 41 runs, three wickets.
IPL 2025 Final: RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction
Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams.
Option 1:
IPL 2025 Final: RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
IPL 2025 Final: RCB vs PBKS Dream11 Prediction
IPL 2025 Final: RCB vs PBKS Match Prediction – Who will win?
What a difficult match to predict. A final that has the potential to be a classic.
RCB, as they won Qualifier 1, had a few extra days’ preparation. That, along with their bowling attack, can get them over the line.
RCB to win the title.
Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes, with the stats and writer’s views in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to make a change to the two-ball rule in ODIs. Currently, two balls are used for the entire innings, i.e. 25 at each end. With the new rule, there will be two balls used until the 34th over, with one for the remainder of the innings.
“There will be two new balls for overs 1 to 34. After over 34 is completed and prior to the start of over 35, the fielding team will choose one of the two balls to be used for overs 35 to 50,” said the ICC to its member nations, according to Cricbuzz.
“The chosen ball will be used at both ends for the remainder of the match (unless it needs to be changed). In a match reduced to 25 overs or less per side before the first innings commences, each team shall have only one new ball for its innings,” the update read.
Change to the two-ball rule in ODIs – welcome change for better battle in death overs
This is welcome news for fans who love to see more of a battle between bat and ball. Since the introduction of the two-ball rule in ODIs, playing conditions have been tilted heavily in favour of the batters. This rule change will aid reverse swing and give bowling teams more of a say in death overs.
In a CricBlog survey, 30% of the 4,700+ respondents said that only one ball can help revitalise ODI cricket. The format does need a bit of a lift in the world of T20 cricket, and this is one way some unpredictability can be brought back.
Other findings from the survey included:
58.47% of respondents said that limiting the number of T20 Internationals will help ODIs as more attention will be on the format.
38.76% said there needs to be more set windows for ODIs throughout the year.
36.85% called for more sporting wickets that seam and spin.
The changes to the two-ball rule in ODIs will be enforced from July 2025 onwards.
