The stage is set for a historic finale as Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Punjab Kings are set to face off in the final of the 18th edition of the IPL at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Both franchises are aiming to end their long-standing title drought in the cash-rich tournament. RCB have reached the final three times previously, in 2009, 2011, and 2016, only to fall short on each occasion. PBKS, formerly known as Kings XI Punjab, made their sole appearance in the final in 2014, where they were defeated by Kolkata Knight Riders. As anticipation builds ahead of the high-stakes encounter, Mid-Day takes a look at 10 players who impressively led their sides to an IPL final in their maiden season as captain (Pic: IPL/BCCI/AFP)
Updated On: 2025-06-03 04:50 PM IST
Compiled by : Srijanee Majumdar
Rajat Patidar has emerged as an inspiring leader, guiding RCB to the IPL 2025 final in his first year at the helm. After securing a convincing win against Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1, Patidar's RCB await their opponents for the title clash
Hardik Pandya had a dream debut as captain, leading the newly-formed Gujarat Titans to the IPL trophy in 2022 by defeating Rajasthan Royals in the final.
In 2018, Kane Williamson took charge of Sunrisers Hyderabad and guided them to the final, where they were eventually overcome by Chennai Super Kings
Rohit Sharma assumed leadership of Mumbai Indians midway through the 2013 season and turned the tide for his team, leading them to their maiden IPL title with a win over CSK in the final
MS Dhoni, at the helm of Chennai Super Kings in their inaugural IPL season in 2008, led his team to the final, only to lose to Shane Warne’s Rajasthan Royals
Shane Warne, arguably the most iconic inaugural captain, famously led a youthful Rajasthan Royals outfit to the IPL title in 2008, defeating CSK in a memorable finale
In 2024, Pat Cummins brought his leadership skills to the fore by steering Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) into the final. Despite a valiant campaign, SRH fell short against the dominant Kolkata Knight Riders
George Bailey, in his first season as captain, took Kings XI Punjab to the 2014 final. The team showcased flair throughout the season but stumbled at the last hurdle against KKR
In 2009, Anil Kumble was entrusted with RCB’s captaincy and led them to the final, where they narrowly lost to the Deccan Chargers
Daniel Vettori captained RCB to the 2011 final during his debut leadership campaign, though his side lost to Chennai Super Kings
