Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to finally break their 18-year IPL title drought in 2025. Speaking to India Today, the legendary batter praised RCB’s all-round performance, consistency in away games, and team balance as key reasons they are the strongest contenders this season.
RCB’s Away Form Raises Hopes
RCB currently sit second on the IPL 2025 points table, with 7 wins in 10 matches—all away from home. Gavaskar noted that such performances under pressure show the team’s adaptability and strength. However, he warned that RCB’s home record remains a concern, especially with three of their four remaining matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.
“They’ve batted well and fielded superbly too. RCB are definitely the title favourites,” Gavaskar said.
Not Just a Kohli-Dependent Team Anymore
This season, RCB has shifted from depending heavily on Virat Kohli to playing as a complete unit. Contributions have come from across the squad, including Tim David, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Devdutt Padikkal, and Josh Hazlewood—making the team more dangerous and balanced.
Mumbai Indians Still Chasing
Gavaskar also commented on Mumbai Indians’ (MI) recent comeback, acknowledging their surge but expressing doubts about their sustainability.
“They’ve only just started their surge. The real question is whether they can keep it up, especially with three tough matches ahead.”
While MI is closing in, RCB’s consistent form places them slightly ahead in the title race, according to the cricket great.
RCB vs CSK: Key Clash Coming Up
RCB next face a struggling Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Saturday. Earlier this season, RCB had beaten CSK convincingly, and in their 2024 meeting at Chinnaswamy, RCB ended CSK’s playoff hopes. With CSK now out of contention, MS Dhoni has publicly said the focus is on rebuilding and grooming young talent.
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