Iyer vs Hazlewood - Kohli vs Arshdeep: 3 key battles that could decide fate of IPL 2025 final between RCB-PBKS

3 key battles that could decide fate of IPL 2025 final between RCB-PBKS (AFP Photo)

The IPL 2025 final is poised to be an enthralling showdown between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), both hungry for their maiden title. As the teams converge at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on several individual skirmishes that could ultimately sway the outcome of this high-stakes encounter. Here are three personal battles that are set to ignite the final:

Prabhsimran Singh (PBKS) vs Bhuvneshwar Kumar (RCB): The Opener’s Onslaught Against the Swing Master

Prabhsimran Singh has hammered 68 runs from just 42 deliveries against Bhuvneshwar (PTI Photo)

Get ready for an explosive start when Prabhsimran Singh steps up to face Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Prabhsimran’s aggressive approach is well-documented, evidenced by his T20 strike rate of 161.9 against Bhuvneshwar, off whom he’s hammered 68 runs from just 42 deliveries. Yet, Bhuvneshwar has found a way to outsmart him five times in nine innings, showcasing his knack for inducing errors from the free-flowing opener. Bhuvneshwar’s expertise with the new ball, particularly his ability to swing it both ways, will be vital in stifling Prabhsimran’s early aggression and preventing PBKS from a flying start. If Prabhsimran can navigate Bhuvneshwar’s initial spell and find his rhythm, he could lay a formidable foundation. Conversely, an early breakthrough by Bhuvneshwar would put immense pressure on the PBKS batting line-up.

Also Read | Virat Kohli in IPL finals: A legacy without a match-winning knock

Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) vs Josh Hazlewood (RCB): The Stabiliser Under Siege by the Aussie Pacer

Josh Hazlewood has dismissed Shreyas Iyer for scores of 7, 6, and 2 (IPL Photo)

The middle overs will feature a fascinating tussle between Shreyas Iyer, the anchor for PBKS, and the relentlessly accurate Josh Hazlewood. Iyer has a clear history of struggling against Hazlewood in T20s, managing a mere 11 runs off 22 balls with four dismissals in six innings, averaging a paltry 2.75 with a strike rate of just 50.00. Adding to this, Iyer has had a tough season against RCB, with scores of 7, 6, and 2. Hazlewood’s precision, consistent lines and lengths, and subtle variations have consistently posed problems for Iyer. For PBKS to build a competitive total or successfully chase, Iyer must find a way to break free from Hazlewood’s grip and accelerate the scoring. This particular match-up will be a stern test of mental fortitude and strategic batting.

Also Read | ‘Shreyas will captain India’: Iyer's leadership attract admirers as selectors overlook PBKS skipper for England Tests

Virat Kohli (RCB) vs Arshdeep Singh (PBKS): The Batting Maestro’s Class Against the Death-Over Specialist

Virat Kohli boasts an impressive record against Arshdeep Singh in the IPL (PTI Photo)

This promises to be a thrilling encounter between two key players in their respective roles. Virat Kohli, RCB’s batting lynchpin, boasts an impressive record against Arshdeep Singh in the IPL, having scored 100 runs off 57 balls at an average of 50.00 and an impressive strike rate of 175.43. While Kohli has largely dominated, Arshdeep has managed to dismiss him twice. Arshdeep, known for his calm demeanour and pinpoint yorkers in the death overs, will be crucial for PBKS in restricting runs at the business end of the innings. If Kohli is still at the crease during the crucial final overs, his battle against Arshdeep will be absolutely pivotal. Can Arshdeep contain Kohli’s scoring and snatch a vital wicket, or will Kohli’s unmatched experience and class allow him to pile on the runs and guide RCB to victory? This clash is set to be a highlight, potentially deciding the fate of the final.

These individual contests aren’t just about personal pride; they represent the tactical battles that will ultimately determine which team lifts the coveted IPL trophy for the very first time. The team that emerges victorious in these key match-ups will undoubtedly hold a significant advantage in their pursuit of glory.