The IPL 2025 final between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, is under the looming threat of rain as two of the league’s most determined teams aim to clinch their first-ever title. While the on-field battle promises fireworks, there’s considerable tension off the field as fans and players alike cast wary eyes towards the Ahmedabad skies, fearing that weather may play spoilsport in the most awaited match of the tournament.

A High-Stakes Encounter Marred by Uncertain Weather

Both RCB and PBKS have never lifted the IPL trophy since the league's inception in 2008. After consistent performances in the group stage, both teams are now poised to make history — but only if weather permits. The rain threat, reminiscent of the IPL 2023 final, is casting a shadow over the summit clash.

According to live updates from weather forecasting platforms and matchday bulletins:

• There was 20% chance of precipitation from 9 AM to 11 AM.

• These chances rose to 49% by 4 PM, peaking at 57% at 5 PM, and hovering at 51% by 6 PM.

• Fortunately for cricket fans, rain probabilities dramatically drop by 7 PM (match toss time) to 5%, and stay low through the evening.

This drop gives significant hope that the match may proceed without delay or overs being reduced, though weather in Ahmedabad has often proven unpredictable in early June.

RCB and PBKS: Clashing with History and Clouds

This final is particularly poignant for both franchises:

• Punjab Kings topped the league stage and bounced back from a Qualifier 1 loss by defeating Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2.

• RCB, finishing second in the league, crushed PBKS in Qualifier 1 with a dominant performance, bowling them out for just 101.

This sets the stage for a dramatic rematch. However, Ahmedabad’s weather has prompted fans to recall the 2023 IPL final, also affected by rain, forcing it onto a reserve day.

Match Contingency and Reserve Day

To tackle the uncertainty, the BCCI has implemented key contingency measures for the final:

• A 120-minute buffer window is available. Play can officially begin as late as 9:30 PM without losing overs.

• A minimum five-over-per-side match can start as late as 11:56 PM.

• If no play is possible tonight (June 3), the final will be shifted to the reserve day on June 4, also scheduled at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

These arrangements aim to ensure a fair and complete contest, avoiding a title decision by default or shared honors.

Weather Comparison: IPL 2025 vs IPL 2023

Rain playing a disruptive role in IPL finals is not new:

• In 2023, the final at the same venue was postponed to the reserve day after persistent rainfall.

• Current conditions are not as extreme but are creating a sense of déjà vu among players and fans.

In 2025, however, the forecast shows only scattered showers — raising optimism that the game might be completed on the scheduled day.

Statistical Edge: RCB Favourites?

Historical playoff data may also give RCB the psychological edge:

• Since 2011, the team that won Qualifier 1 has gone on to win the IPL 11 out of 14 times.

• Moreover, 8 out of those 14 winners were second in the league stage, a position that RCB occupied this season.

RCB, with their recent momentum and statistical advantage, will be keen to end their 18-year drought. PBKS, equally driven, will hope for redemption after their Qualifier 1 thrashing.

What’s at Stake

For both teams, this match goes far beyond the silverware:

• RCB seeks to finally lift the title after heartbreaks in 2009, 2011, and 2016.

• PBKS, previously known as Kings XI Punjab, lost their only final in 2014 and have had turbulent seasons since.

Winning this final would rewrite legacies, energize fanbases, and place either team’s name permanently in the list of IPL champions.

Fan Reactions and Social Buzz

Social media has been buzzing with prayers for clear skies, with hashtags like #RCBvsPBKS, #NoRainPlease, and #IPLFinal2025 trending across platforms. Stadium-goers in Ahmedabad are arriving prepared — umbrellas in hand, but hearts full of hope.

Fans from both cities have flocked to Ahmedabad, adding to the palpable tension and excitement. Vendors, local businesses, and hospitality services are also banking on an uninterrupted game for better business outcomes.

Impact of Delay on Players and Strategy

A rain delay could have serious implications:

• Pitch conditions may become more favorable for slower bowlers if there’s moisture.

• Dew factor will play a major role in the second innings, potentially influencing toss decisions.

• A shortened match might benefit teams with explosive power-hitters — something both franchises boast.

Captains and coaches will be keeping tabs on the hourly forecast, recalibrating strategies in case of reduced-overs scenarios.

Conclusion: A Clash of Titans, Weather Permitting

With all eyes on Ahmedabad’s weather and the stadium’s floodlights, tonight promises either a dream come true or another chapter of heartbreak. Rain remains a key player in this final — unseen yet impactful.

Fans are urged to stay tuned for live updates as match officials closely monitor the sky. Regardless of interruptions, one team will finally shed its "chokers" tag and walk away with the IPL trophy — whether tonight or tomorrow.

Let’s hope the weather stays clear and cricket takes center stage as RCB and PBKS battle for glory in what could be the most memorable IPL final ever.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are Sacheerome Limited, Ganga Bath Fittings, Victory Electric Vehicles International, Wagons Learning.

The Current active IPO are 3B Films

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.