Following India’s triumphant third victory at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, cricket fans are now eagerly anticipating the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, set to begin on March 22. However, ahead of the tournament, former Indian batter Ambati Rayudu couldn’t resist taking a playful jab at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), mocking their inability to clinch an IPL title despite their massive fan following.
Rayudu’s comments came during the Hindi commentary panel for the Champions Trophy final between India and New Zealand. When Sanjay Bangar, former India batting coach and ex-RCB support staff, praised RCB’s consistent playoff appearances in recent years, Rayudu seized the moment to tease the franchise.
Ambati Rayudu’s Witty Dig at RCB’s Playoff Struggles
Bangar highlighted RCB’s recent performances, noting that the team had reached the playoffs four times in the last five seasons, including their impressive comeback in IPL 2024 after losing seven early matches.
“The team’s performance has been consistent for the last 4-5 years. They’ve made it to the playoffs four times. Last year, after losing seven matches and still reaching the playoffs, it was a remarkable comeback. Such a comeback can help the team cross the next hurdle,” Bangar said.
Rayudu, however, humorously quipped that RCB might only progress as far as Qualifier 2 in IPL 2025, doubting their chances of winning the title.
“Right, Sanjay Bhai. RCB will cross the next hurdle. So next time, they’ll reach Qualifier 2 (laughs),” Rayudu remarked, drawing laughter from the panel.
Bangar jokingly called the comment a “below-the-belt” remark and warned Rayudu about RCB’s passionate fanbase.
“This is so wrong. Hitting below the belt. I won’t tolerate this. RCB fans are watching you,” Bangar said, laughing.
Rayudu, unfazed, cheekily responded, “Let them watch. So what? Are you threatening me? Anyway, love for RCB fans (smiles).”
The show’s host then reminded Bangar that Rayudu is a staunch Chennai Super Kings (CSK) supporter, which explains his comfort in trolling RCB.
Below the belt to RCB fans from Rayudu gaaru pic.twitter.com/ao7IYCovul
— Vibhor (@Vibhor4CSK) March 10, 2025
Also READ: IPL: Complete list of all RCB captains so far ft. Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli
Rayudu Previously Hoped RCB ‘Never Wins IPL’
This isn’t the first time Rayudu has poked fun at RCB’s title drought. During an episode of the Raw Talks Podcast, he jestingly expressed hope that RCB would never win the IPL.
“I feel it’s a matter of time before they (RCB) win the trophy. But I just hope and pray that year never comes (laughing),” Rayudu had said.
Despite boasting legendary players like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, and Faf du Plessis, RCB remains one of the few original teams yet to lift the IPL trophy since its inception in 2008. They’ve reached the final three times (2009, 2011, and 2016) but lost on each occasion. With Rajat Patidar now leading the team in IPL 2025, RCB fans are hopeful for a breakthrough season.
IPL 2025: RCB’s Season Opener and Key Fixtures
The 18th edition of the IPL kicks off on March 22, with RCB taking on defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Here are some key fixtures for IPL 2025:
- March 22 – RCB vs. KKR (Eden Gardens, Kolkata)
- March 23 – CSK vs. MI (MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai)
- May 25 – IPL 2025 Final (Eden Gardens, Kolkata)
With Rayudu’s bold comments making waves, all eyes will be on RCB this season as they aim to silence their critics and finally secure their maiden IPL title.
