As Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) prepare for their fourth IPL final, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar voiced optimism about the team clinching their first title. “I’m delighted. Our Bengaluru team will triumph in Ahmedabad. It’s been a long wait. The entire state, including the government, is cheering for them,” he said on Monday.
Shivakumar also noted that a large number of fans from Karnataka are heading to Ahmedabad to support RCB. “Let’s hope and pray they return as champions,” he added.
The summit clash at Narendra Modi Stadium will see RCB face off against Punjab Kings (PBKS), with both franchises aiming to win their maiden IPL title. A new champion is certain, marking the first such moment since 2016.
RCB reached the final after dominating the league stage and convincingly defeating PBKS in Qualifier 1. Although both teams shared wins in the regular season, RCB dismantled PBKS in their most recent encounter, bowling them out for just 101 in Mullanpur.
PBKS bounced back by overcoming defending champions Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 on Sunday, earning another shot at RCB. The Kings had earlier secured second place in the league standings.
For RCB, this is their fourth appearance in the final, having fallen short in 2009, 2011, and 2016. With a strong fan base and momentum, hopes are high for the Bengaluru side to finally lift the coveted IPL trophy.
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