Shane Watson predicts IPL glory for RCB, Kohli to star in final

In a bold and heartfelt prediction, former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has thrown his weight behind Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to clinch the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 title—ending an agonizing 18-year hunt for silverware.

Speaking via a video posted on his X handle, Watson also forecasted that none other than Virat Kohli would rise to the occasion and be crowned Player of the Match in the final.

“The winner of IPL 2025, and I’ve been thinking long and hard about it, is RCB,” Watson declared. “And the Man of the Match for me is Virat Kohli, the great man... I just get a feeling this is the time for RCB.”

Watson, who himself played for RCB in their heartbreaking 2016 final loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), referenced his own struggles in that match—where he conceded 61 runs and scored just 11. It's a performance he has repeatedly apologized for to fans of the franchise, underscoring his emotional investment in RCB's quest for redemption.

This year, RCB stormed into the playoffs with renewed energy, finishing second on the league table with 19 points from 14 matches—their highest placement in nine years. Now led by the dynamic Rajat Patidar, the Bengaluru-based team looks hungrier than ever.

Watson pointed to the timely return of Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood as a crucial factor in RCB’s momentum heading into the knockouts. Hazlewood, who missed the final two league games due to a shoulder niggle, has rejoined the squad just in time, adding firepower to an already resurgent unit.

“They’ve had a few blips towards the end, but with Hazlewood back, I believe this is their year,” Watson emphasized.

With Kohli’s form, Hazlewood’s comeback, and a squad peaking at the right moment, the stars may finally be aligning for RCB. And if Watson’s instincts prove correct, this could be the season when Bengaluru finally lifts the trophy that has eluded them for nearly two decades.