IPL 2025: RCB Claims Title, PBKS Shows Remarkable Growth

RCB's Historic Victory

The IPL 2025 season has shattered numerous records, highlighted by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally clinching their first IPL title after 18 years. This victory has propelled them ahead of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in terms of brand and business value, boasting an impressive brand valuation of US$269 million. A standout performance came from the Punjab Kings (PBKS), particularly under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, who guided the team to the finals. According to Houlihan Lokey, PBKS recorded the highest growth in IPL 2025, achieving a remarkable 39.6% increase.

Sponsorship Revenue Surges

Reflecting the growing popularity of the IPL, the Board of Control for Cricket in India auctioned four associate sponsorship positions—My11Circle, Angel One, RuPay, and CEAT—raising ₹1,485 crores, which marks a 25% increase from the previous cycle. Additionally, the Tata Group has extended its title sponsorship until 2028 with a lucrative five-year deal worth US$300 million (₹2,500 crores).

RCB Takes the Lead

In a surprising shift in franchise valuations, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have ascended to the top spot with a brand value of US$269 million, up from US$227 million last year. The Mumbai Indians have climbed to second place, valued at US$242 million, while the Chennai Super Kings have dropped to third with a valuation of US$235 million, slightly up from US$231 million in 2024. The Punjab Kings reported the highest year-on-year growth at 39.6%, closely followed by the Lucknow Super Giants, which saw an increase of over 34%.

Kohli Shines as Top Scorer

Virat Kohli, retained as a senior batter, emerged as RCB's top scorer, accumulating 657 runs, making him the third-highest scorer of the season, trailing only Gujarat Titans' Sai Sudarshan and Mumbai Indians' Suryakumar Yadav. Shreyas Iyer also had a commendable season, scoring 604 runs, placing him sixth among the top scorers and the highest for his team.