The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a major shake-up in the IPL 2025 schedule, confirming Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium as the host for this year’s grand final. In another key decision, the high-stakes league match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will now be played in Lucknow, moving away from rain-hit Bengaluru. These changes, driven by unpredictable weather and logistical challenges, are set to redefine the closing stages of the season.
IPL 2025 Final Returns to Ahmedabad
Why Ahmedabad?
The IPL 2025 final will take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium on June 3, marking the third time in four years that the world’s largest cricket stadium hosts the summit clash. The BCCI’s decision comes after Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, initially slated to host the final, faced persistent weather threats. Ahmedabad’s proven track record for hosting high-profile matches and its weather reliability made it the logical choice.
Key facts about the venue change:
- The final is scheduled for June 3, 2025.
- Ahmedabad will also host Qualifier 2 on June 1.
- Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator will be played at the New PCA Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh.
Narendra Modi Stadium’s IPL Legacy
Ahmedabad’s stadium has quickly become an IPL fortress:
- Hosted the IPL finals in 2022 and 2023.
- Known for its electric atmosphere and world-class facilities.
- Recent trends show teams batting first have found more success this season.
RCB vs SRH Shifted to Lucknow: Here’s Why
The league match between RCB and SRH, originally scheduled in Bengaluru, has been relocated to Lucknow’s Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium. This move was prompted by persistent rain in Bengaluru, which recently caused the washout of the crucial RCB vs KKR match and threatened more disruptions.
What fans need to know:
- The RCB vs SRH fixture is now set for Lucknow.
- The decision aims to ensure a fair contest and maintain the league’s competitive balance.
- Additional extra time will be allocated for rain interruptions in the remaining league matches.
IPL 2025 Playoff Venues: Full Schedule and Rationale
Updated IPL 2025 Playoff Schedule
- Qualifier 1: New PCA Stadium, Mullanpur – May 29
- Eliminator: New PCA Stadium, Mullanpur – May 30
- Qualifier 2: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad – June 1
- Final: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad – June 3
Why the Changes?
The BCCI cited two main reasons:
Weather Concerns: Kolkata and Hyderabad, the original playoff venues, are both facing inclement weather, risking further washouts.
Logistical Constraints: The season’s earlier suspension due to geopolitical tensions forced a condensed schedule and fewer host cities.
What This Means for Teams and Fans
- Teams must quickly adapt to new venues and conditions, especially those with strong home records.
- Fans in Ahmedabad and Lucknow will enjoy marquee matches, while those in Kolkata and Bengaluru face disappointment.
- The BCCI’s proactive approach aims to protect the integrity of the tournament and ensure a thrilling finish.
FAQs: IPL 2025 Final and Venue Changes
Q1: Why was the IPL 2025 final moved to Ahmedabad?
The final was shifted from Kolkata to Ahmedabad due to persistent bad weather in Kolkata, ensuring the match can be played without rain interruptions.
Q2: Which matches will Mullanpur host?
Mullanpur’s New PCA Stadium will host Qualifier 1 and the Eliminator, both key playoff fixtures.
Q3: Why was RCB vs SRH moved to Lucknow?
Continuous rain in Bengaluru threatened another washout, so the match was relocated to Lucknow for better playing conditions.
Q4: When is the IPL 2025 final?
The final will take place on June 3, 2025, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Q5: Has Ahmedabad hosted IPL finals before?
Yes, the stadium hosted the finals in 2022 and 2023, making this the third final in four years at the venue.
Conclusion
With the IPL 2025 final set for Ahmedabad and key matches shifting to new venues, the BCCI has shown flexibility and foresight in the face of weather and logistical challenges. Fans can look forward to a dramatic finish at the Narendra Modi Stadium, while the shift of RCB vs SRH to Lucknow underscores the league’s commitment to fairness and uninterrupted cricket. As the playoffs approach, every match—and every venue—will play a crucial role in crowning this season’s champion.