IPL Finals 2025: Rishi Sunak, Wife Cheer For RCB and Virat Kohli at Narendra Modi Stadium

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and his wife Akshata Murty were spotted cheering for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. They attended the final match of the 18th Indian Premier League (IPL) season against Punjab Kings on Tuesday. The atmosphere was electric as fans filled the stands to support their teams.

Sunak expressed his excitement about the experience, stating, "This is incredible, this is absolutely electric, this is my first time here, the crowd is incredible, I have never experienced cricket like this." His enthusiasm was evident as he spoke to interviewers after RCB's batting concluded. The stadium buzzed with energy as fans cheered for their favourite team.

RCB's Journey to the Final

RCB reached the IPL final for the first time in 15 years. They secured their spot with an impressive eight-wicket victory over Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1. Punjab Kings then defeated Mumbai Indians to enter their second IPL final. At the Narendra Modi Stadium, RCB posted a score of 190/9 in 20 overs against Punjab Kings.

Earlier in the day, Sunak shared a selfie with his wife on X, captioning it with "Let's go @RCBTweets." His support for RCB was evident throughout the match. The couple's presence added to the excitement of the event as they joined thousands of fans in cheering for their team.

Cricket's Return to the Olympics

Sunak also commented on cricket's inclusion in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. He linked this development to India's growing global influence and praised both IPL and BCCI for their transformative roles. Cricket will be part of the Olympics for the first time since 1900, highlighting its resurgence on an international stage.

"It's a sign of the influence India now has in the 21st century," Sunak remarked. He noted that India's passions and tastes are now impacting globally. According to him, cricket's return to the Olympics after a century-long absence is largely due to India's influence.

The Impact of IPL

Sunak, known for his love of cricket, acknowledged IPL's transformative impact on cricket worldwide. "The IPL has transformed cricket," he said. He believes every cricketer now aspires to play in IPL at some point in their career. Additionally, he highlighted its positive impact on women's cricket through initiatives like Women's Premier League.