All eyes are on the much-awaited IPL 2025 final, and the stage is perfectly set. Two top Indian batsmen, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer are ready to lead their teams in a high-stakes match. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), captained by Rajat Patidar but Kohli leading from behind, will face Punjab Kings (PBKS), led by Shreyas Iyer. Both players are in great form, and fans are eager to see who can guide their team to glory.
Virat Kohli – The Face of RCB
Virat Kohli is not just a player; he is the heart and soul of RCB. In IPL 2025, Kohli has been in outstanding touch. In 14 matches, he has scored 614 runs at an average of 55.82 and a strike rate of 149.53. He has hit eight half-centuries this season, showing that he remains one of the best in the business.
However, Kohli’s record in IPL finals isn’t as strong as expected. He has played in three IPL finals (2009, 2011, 2016) but hasn’t lifted the trophy. In these finals, he has scored 96 runs, with an average of 32.00 and a highest score of 54.
When it comes to playing against Punjab Kings, Kohli has strong numbers. Over the years, he has scored 1,116 runs in 35 innings, averaging 36.00 with a strike rate of 133.00. This season, he scored 74 not out in one match against PBKS, proving he can handle their bowling attack.
Shreyas Iyer – The Calm and Clever Captain
Shreyas Iyer has quietly become one of the most respected leaders in the IPL. Shreyas Iyer has guided Punjab Kings to the final in IPL 2025 with steady performances, scoring 603 runs in 16 games at an average of 54.82 and an excellent strike rate of 175.80. He has hit six fifties, and his standout knock was 87* off 41 balls in the Qualifier 2 match, which helped PBKS defeat Mumbai Indians.
Iyer also has solid leadership experience. He guided Delhi Capitals to the final in 2020, secured the title with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024, and now leads Punjab Kings into the 2025 final.That makes him the first-ever player to captain three different franchises to an IPL final.
But when it comes to playing against RCB, Iyer has struggled. In 17 matches, he has scored 408 runs with an average of 25.50 and a strike rate of 120.35. He has scored just 15 runs in three games against RCB this season, so he’ll have to raise his game in the final.
Also read: IPL 2025 Final: What Happens If RCB vs PBKS Match Gets Washed Out?
Head-to-Head Comparison Virat Kohli vs Shreyas Iyer
| Category | Virat Kohli (RCB) | Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) |
|---|---|---|
| IPL 2025 Matches Played | 14 | 16 |
| IPL 2025 Runs | 614 | 603 |
| Batting Average (2025) | 55.82 | 54.82 |
| Strike Rate (2025) | 149.53 | 175.80 |
| 50+ Scores (2025) | 8 | 6 |
| Best Score (2025) | 74* vs PBKS | 97* vs GT |
| IPL Final Appearances | 4 (2009, 2011, 2016, 2025) | 3 (2020 with DC, 2024 with KKR, 2025 with PBKS) |
| IPL Titles as Captain | 0 | 1 (2024 with KKR) |
| Runs in IPL Finals | 96 runs (avg 32.00, best 24) | Match-winning knock in 2024 final |
| All-Time Runs vs Opponent | 1,116 vs PBKS (Avg 36.00, SR 133.01) | 408 vs RCB (Avg 25.50, SR 120.35) |
| 2025 vs Opponent | 89 runs in 3 matches (best 74*) | 15 runs in 3 matches |
| Captaincy Style | Aggressive, Passionate | Calm, Composed, Strategic |
Who Has the Edge?
Kohli has been consistent and looks determined to finally win RCB their first IPL title. His hunger, experience, and current form make him a serious threat. Iyer, on the other hand, is a proven leader in knockout matches. He has already lifted the trophy as a captain and performs best when the pressure is on.
Both players have strengths and weaknesses. Kohli has better personal stats, especially against PBKS. Iyer, however, has a better captaincy record and has already tasted success in an IPL final.
The IPL 2025 final is more than a game, it’s a clash of two contrasting leadership styles. Kohli brings passion and fire; Iyer brings calm and control. Both are in great form and know what it takes to lead a team to the final. The big question is: Who will rise to the occasion and take their team to victory? No matter who wins, fans are in for a thrilling and emotional finale.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
