RCB’s Historic IPL Final Triumph Captivates Record Viewers
On June 3, 2025, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clinched their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title by narrowly defeating the Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs in a thrilling final held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This landmark victory didn’t just bring joy to fans—it also shattered television viewership records, surpassing the massive audience of the iconic India-Pakistan T20 World Cup match from 2021.
Unprecedented Viewership Figures Take Center Stage
Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) data reveals that the IPL final attracted a staggering 169 million viewers across India, edging past the 166 million who tuned in for the high-octane India-Pakistan clash at the 2021 T20 World Cup in Dubai. This remarkable feat underscores the growing popularity and emotional investment surrounding the IPL’s climactic showdown.
What Made the IPL Final So Special?
Both matches etched their place in cricket history for different reasons. The 2021 World Cup fixture was monumental as Pakistan defeated India by 10 wickets, breaking a long winless streak against their rivals in World Cups. However, the allure of the IPL final stemmed from a fresh narrative. Neither RCB nor PBKS had previously hoisted the IPL trophy, guaranteeing a first-time champion regardless of the outcome.
For many, the final represented the fulfillment of Virat Kohli’s 18-year quest for an IPL crown, making RCB’s triumph resonate deeply with fans nationwide.
Rating and Engagement Highlights
- The IPL final recorded a Television Rating (TVR) of 11, marking the third-highest in IPL history.
- Total watch time reached an extraordinary 15 billion minutes, surpassing the 14.2 billion minutes generated during the 2023 T20 World Cup final between India and South Africa.
- This impressive engagement occurred despite the match airing on a Tuesday, a non-traditional day for such marquee events.
Context Behind the Numbers
The 2025 IPL season faced interruptions due to security concerns amidst geopolitical tensions, including a week-long pause in May following an armed conflict between India and Pakistan. Despite these challenges and the absence of a weekend slot, the IPL final’s viewership skyrocketed, highlighting the tournament’s growing stature and the magnetic appeal of witnessing a new champion crowned.
