The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) versus Punjab Kings (PBKS) IPL 2025 final has etched its name in the annals of cricket history, emerging as the most-watched T20 game ever played. The highly anticipated clash between these two formidable teams captivated audiences worldwide, setting new benchmarks for television and digital viewership. According to official data released by JioStar, the broadcast and streaming partner of IPL 2025, the final recorded an unprecedented 31.7 billion minutes of watch-time across all platforms.
The RCB vs PBKS final was more than just a cricket match; it was a cultural phenomenon that gripped the nation and resonated with fans across the globe. The thrilling contest, which saw Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs to win their maiden title, drew in a massive audience, shattering previous viewership records and underscoring the immense popularity of the T20 format.
On television, the final reached a staggering 169 million viewers, with a total watch-time of 15 billion minutes, according to BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council India) data. Star Sports delivered 456 billion minutes of live coverage throughout the tournament, the highest ever for the IPL. Digital platforms witnessed an even more dramatic surge in viewership, with JioHotstar recording 892 million video views, a peak concurrency of 55 million viewers, and an astounding 16.74 billion minutes of watch-time. The digital platform experienced a 29% surge in viewing compared to the previous year. The rise in digital consumption was also fueled by a 49% increase in Connected TV (CTV) viewing, highlighting the growing trend of large-screen digital consumption.
The record-breaking viewership of the RCB vs PBKS final contributed significantly to the overall success of IPL 2025, which reached over one billion viewers across television and digital platforms and amassed a cumulative watch-time of 840 billion minutes. Sanjog Gupta, CEO of Sports and Live Experiences at JioStar, attributed the incredible viewership numbers to the unwavering passion of fans and the league's commitment to providing a personalized, interactive, and inclusive viewing experience. JioStar introduced new digital features such as MaxView 2.0, dedicated FAST channels, voice-based video search and content in 12 Indian languages.
Several factors contributed to the unprecedented viewership of the IPL 2025 final. Firstly, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru were playing to win their maiden title after 18 years. Secondly, Virat Kohli lifting the trophy for the first time was a major draw for fans. Thirdly, the emergence of 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who became the youngest centurion in IPL history, added to the excitement and intrigue surrounding the tournament. Finally, the high-octane drama and unpredictable nature of the T20 format kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout the season.
