Suresh Raina Predicts Royal Challengers Bengaluru Could Finally Clinch IPL Glory in 2025
Former Indian cricket star Suresh Raina is buzzing with confidence about Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s chances this IPL season. He says the team is playing like a completely different side compared to previous years — and that could finally mean the elusive IPL trophy is within Virat Kohli’s grasp.
“There are strong chances because Royal Challengers Bengaluru is playing in a different league this year. They’ve defended scores like 150 and 136 at Chinnaswamy and their bowling unit has stepped up,” Raina noted during a chat on Star Sports.
RCB’s Transformation: A New Vibe, A New Hope
What’s really catching everyone’s attention is the fresh approach RCB has brought to the table in 2025. For years, RCB’s story in the IPL has been one of high expectations but falling short when it really matters. Kohli, a legend of the franchise and Indian cricket, has been the face of those near-misses — especially the heartbreaking loss in 2016, which still stings fans to this day.
Back then, Kohli was captain, and despite some heroic efforts, RCB lost the final to Sunrisers Hyderabad at their home ground, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Thousands of fans were left heartbroken, hoping it was just a matter of time before their favorite team would finally lift the trophy. Fast forward to 2025, and things look different. This time, the team’s momentum and mindset appear to be aligned perfectly for success.
Captaincy and Key Victories Boost RCB’s Confidence
One of the exciting stories this season is the impact of RCB’s new captain. According to Raina, the skipper has already beaten the IPL powerhouse Chennai Super Kings twice — once on their home turf in Chennai and again at Chinnaswamy. That alone sends a powerful message to the competition:
“The new captain has beaten Chennai Super Kings twice, once in Chennai and again at home, which speaks volumes. The dressing room is positive and these are signs of a team that can go all the way,” Raina said.
Beating the defending champions twice is no small feat. It not only lifts the morale of the entire squad but also shows the kind of firepower and strategy RCB has this season.
IPL 2025: Current Standings and What’s at Stake
RCB currently sits comfortably in second place on the IPL 2025 points table. Out of 11 matches played so far, they’ve lost only three — a testament to their consistency and grit. With just one more win, they’ll seal a playoff berth, putting them well on course for a title run.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. The IPL resumed on Saturday, May 17, after being paused due to tense India-Pakistan border tensions. The return match pitted Bengaluru against Kolkata Knight Riders, and all eyes were on Kohli — especially since he recently announced his retirement from Test cricket.
The Kohli Factor: More Than Just Runs
Virat Kohli’s journey with the IPL and RCB has been a rollercoaster ride. Known as one of the greatest batsmen of his generation, Kohli’s stats and passion have often carried the team through tough spots. But winning the IPL title has always been that missing piece in his illustrious career.
This season could be Kohli’s moment of redemption. With a revitalized squad, a supportive captain, and a buzzing home crowd at Chinnaswamy, the stars seem to be aligning.
What Makes This RCB Different?
Let’s dig into what’s really changed for RCB in 2025, and why this team is being talked about like never before.
-
Stronger Bowling Unit: In previous seasons, RCB’s bowling was often a weak link. But this year, they’ve defended low scores like 150 and 136 — no easy task at a batting-friendly venue like Chinnaswamy. That shows a major improvement in their bowling attack, which is crucial in T20 cricket.
-
Team Chemistry and Positivity: Raina highlighted the positive vibes inside the dressing room. When players are confident and united, it translates into better performances on the field.
-
Smart Captaincy: Tactical decisions, field placements, and managing pressure moments have been spot on from the new skipper, who has already earned wins against tough opponents.
-
Balanced Batting Lineup: Alongside Kohli, the batsmen have stepped up. Whether it’s quick runs in the powerplay or steady finishes, RCB has options all around.
Why Fans Are Buzzing With Hope
RCB fans are a passionate bunch — patient but hungry for that first IPL title. The team’s past disappointments have made every playoff appearance bittersweet. But this year, the renewed energy is palpable.
The key reasons fans believe this is their season:
-
The team’s resilience under pressure
-
Consistent performances against top rivals
-
A leader who knows how to inspire and adapt
-
The backing of a home crowd that’s always electric
IPL 2025 Resumes: The Road Ahead
The IPL’s mid-season break due to geopolitical tensions added uncertainty, but now that the tournament is back, teams have to pick up where they left off — and RCB has done so with a bang. The match against Kolkata Knight Riders was more than just another fixture; it was a statement game.
Kohli’s recent retirement from Test cricket has freed him from the exhausting demands of the longest format, and many believe that his IPL focus will sharpen even more.
Key Matchups to Watch
The remainder of IPL 2025 promises intense battles, and RCB will have to maintain their momentum. Keep an eye on:
-
RCB vs Mumbai Indians: A classic rivalry that often tests a team’s mettle.
-
RCB’s bowling attack: Whether they can continue to defend modest totals.
-
Kohli’s form: Will he finally take the IPL trophy home?
Final Thoughts: Can RCB Break the Jinx?
For years, Royal Challengers Bengaluru has been the bridesmaid but never the bride. The IPL title has eluded them despite some brilliant individual performances. But 2025 looks like the year when all the pieces fit perfectly.
With the bowling attack stepping up, the captain leading from the front, and the team showing unity and grit, Suresh Raina’s prediction might just come true. This season could finally give Virat Kohli and RCB fans the celebration they have waited so long for.
Login