After waiting 18 years for their maiden IPL trophy in 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have now successfully defended their crown, signaling the start of a new era in the tournament. With their second consecutive title, RCB have established themselves as one of the league’s dominant forces, similar to the successful dynasties built by Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings.
RCB enjoyed an even stronger campaign this season, finishing as table-toppers and defeating Gujarat Titans twice within a week, including a commanding performance in the final at Ahmedabad. While their batting powered them to victory in Qualifier 1, it was their bowlers who delivered in the title clash.
Much of the credit goes to head coach Andy Flower and director of cricket Mo Bobat, who revamped the franchise’s approach after 2024. Moving away from a star-centric strategy, RCB focused on building a balanced team and made the bold decision to appoint Rajat Patidar as captain in 2025.
Patidar’s leadership has proved inspirational. Leading from the front, he scored 501 runs this season at a strike rate of 192.69 and played a match-winning unbeaten 93 off just 33 balls in Qualifier 1. His performances and calm leadership have helped shift the focus from individual stars to collective success.
With back-to-back IPL titles, RCB have not only ended years of heartbreak but also laid the foundation for a sustained period of dominance in the league.
