The atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Stadium is expected to be electric as Punjab Kings (PBKS) gear up to face Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in what promises to be a thrilling IPL 2025 final. But even before the first ball is bowled, PBKS coach Sanjay Bangar is preparing his squad for a challenge that goes beyond the boundary ropes — the thunderous roar of a pro-Virat Kohli crowd.

With RCB reaching their first IPL final since their maiden title win in 2024, the anticipation surrounding the team has skyrocketed. And with Kohli at the helm once again, fans from across the country — and especially Gujarat — have flooded Ahmedabad to back their icon. Tickets were reportedly sold out within minutes of release, and stadium officials estimate over 90% of the crowd could be cheering for RCB and Kohli.

Bangar Acknowledges the “12th Man”

Speaking to the media on the eve of the final, Bangar admitted that the team is well aware of the partisan atmosphere awaiting them.

“We know it’s going to be loud, passionate, and overwhelmingly in favor of RCB. But we’ve prepared for that. It’s not just 11 players on the field — the crowd becomes the 12th man when it’s Kohli in India,” Bangar said with a smile.

Bangar, who was once part of the RCB coaching setup, understands the magnitude of Kohli’s influence and fan following. However, he emphasized that PBKS is not rattled.

“The boys are mo