IPL 2025 Playoffs: Former Indian Batter Robin Uthappa Predicts RCB and PBKS as Finalists
As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 playoffs approach, former Indian batter Robin Uthappa has made his predictions for the finalists. In a statement that has sent shockwaves through the cricket community, Uthappa believes that the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) will face off in the final match. This prediction comes after PBKS secured a top-two finish with a convincing win over the Mumbai Indians (MI), while RCB still needs to win their final league stage game against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to confirm their spot.
Uthappa, speaking on JioStar, expressed his confidence in the two teams, saying, "I have a strong feeling the final is going to be between RCB and Punjab. I’ve said it from the beginning, I believe it’s going to be Punjab and RCB." He also highlighted the potential of Arshdeep Singh, stating that the player is due for a big performance, which could be a game-changer for PBKS.
The former batter also praised PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer, who led the team to playoff qualification for the first time since 2014. Iyer, who previously led the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to a dominant title run, has become the first captain in IPL history to lead three different franchises (DC, KKR, and PBKS) to the playoffs. Uthappa noted, "Shreyas has always been an exceptional captain. You always sensed that he felt underappreciated at KKR despite adding value there. He moved to a franchise where not much had been achieved historically – and then went on to win it for them. That says a lot about his leadership and belief."
RCB and PBKS are two of the three teams, along with the Delhi Capitals, that have never won an IPL title despite participating in all 17 previous editions. RCB last made the final in 2016, while PBKS qualified for their lone IPL final in 2024. With the playoffs set to begin on Thursday, May 29, fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the tournament.
As the teams gear up for the playoffs, Uthappa’s predictions have added to the excitement and anticipation. Will RCB and PBKS live up to his expectations, or will other teams spring a surprise? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the IPL 2025 playoffs are shaping up to be an thrilling ride.
