“One Team That You Cannot Allow…” – Ashwin Warns RCB About MI Threat Ahead of IPL 2025 Final
Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has weighed in on Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) path to their elusive first IPL title, cautioning the side against the threat posed by Mumbai Indians (MI). After RCB marched into their first final since 2016 with a dominant 8-wicket win over Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 at Mullanpur, Ashwin believes MI are the only team that can potentially derail their dream run.
In a video on his YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat’, Ashwin made it clear that RCB would be better off facing Gujarat Titans in the final, should they beat MI in the Eliminator. “If RCB have to win the IPL, then Gujarat Titans should win against Mumbai Indians. MI are one team that you cannot allow to enter the final, you have to stop them at any cost,” Ashwin said.
RCB Eyeing Glory, But MI Loom as Real Threat
RCB have had a sensational turnaround in IPL 2025 under the leadership of Rajat Patidar and the continued brilliance of Virat Kohli. But Ashwin feels history and momentum make Mumbai Indians — the five-time IPL champions — the most dangerous opponent.
“RCB will keep their fingers crossed to not have Mumbai Indians in the final. Mumbai is the only team that has some chance against RCB. It looks like RCB are going the distance, but this is cricket — anything can happen,” Ashwin warned.
RCB and MI met just once in the league phase this season, with RCB edging past MI in a high-voltage contest at the Wankhede. Ashwin believes that despite that win, RCB would not want to take their chances again against the seasoned Mumbai side on a big final night.
Ashwin on Kohli: ‘It’s Written in the Stars’
Ashwin also highlighted that 2024-25 has been a dream year for Kohli on the international stage, and now might be the perfect time for him to finally lift an IPL trophy.
“People kept saying Kohli didn’t have an ICC title. Now, he’s won the T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy in the span of a year. Though not as captain, he’s contributed massively. Could this be RCB’s year too?” Ashwin pondered.
He added, “Virat Kohli will stand up on the big day. If it’s a chase, he knows how to guide the innings. He has the experience, the calm, and the hunger.”
Qualifier 1 Recap: RCB Dominate PBKS
RCB stamped their authority in Qualifier 1 as they bundled out PBKS for just 101 in 14.1 overs. Josh Hazlewood (3/21) and Suyash Sharma (3/17) were the standout performers, while Yash Dayal, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Romario Shepherd chipped in with crucial wickets.
Chasing the modest target, Phil Salt ensured there were no hiccups as he blasted an unbeaten 56 off just 27 balls. RCB reached the finish line in just 10 overs, underlining their form and intent heading into the final.
Road Ahead for RCB
RCB will now await the winner of Qualifier 2, which will be played between Punjab Kings and the winner of the Eliminator clash between MI and Gujarat Titans. With the final scheduled at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on June 3, the excitement continues to build.
Ashwin’s words serve as both a warning and a reflection of the respect MI command in the IPL arena. For RCB, the path is clear — avoid MI in the final, and the long-awaited IPL title may finally be within reach.
