As Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Punjab Kings within the IPL 2025 ultimate at present, the quantity 18 looms massive—on Virat Kohli’s jersey, within the date’s digits, and presumably in future.
Virat Kohli’s lifelong hyperlink to the quantity 18 is central to fan buzz round at present’s title conflict at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. From debuting internationally on August 18, 2008, to marking his father’s loss of life on December 18, 2006, the quantity has shadowed his private {and professional} milestones. Even June 3, 2025—match day—provides as much as 18, numerically or symbolically, relying on the strategy.
Kohli’s “cosmic connection” to 18 now fuels hope for RCB’s first-ever IPL title within the event’s 18th version. “It was by no means chosen, it discovered me,” he as soon as stated in regards to the quantity that adorns his jersey, restaurant chain One8, and automobile plates.
Shreyas Iyer, the person standing in the best way
Throughout the sphere, one other commanding determine stands in his path: Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer. With a popularity as a clutch performer and savvy tactician, Iyer has powered PBKS to their first ultimate in 11 years.
His 87* off 41 in Qualifier 2, that includes 8 sixes, dismantled Mumbai Indians and exemplified his composure beneath fireplace.
“He simply doesn’t flinch,” a Punjab official stated after Iyer’s post-match speech: “We’ve misplaced the battle, not the warfare,” rallying his squad after a heavy Qualifier 1 loss.
Iyer is the one captain to take three franchises—Delhi Capitals (2020), Kolkata Knight Riders (2024), and now PBKS—to IPL finals, profitable with KKR final yr. He’s completed it regardless of key accidents, guiding a youthful aspect with exact selections like opting to chase beneath dewy skies in Qualifier 2.
Including drama to the finale is Preity Zinta, co-owner of PBKS, whose fervent presence within the stands and rallying cry—“Bas Jeetna Hai”—has electrified followers. Her face-off with Kohli’s star energy provides a celeb subplot to cricket’s grandest evening.
