Rishi Sunak Throws Support Behind RCB Ahead of IPL 2025 Final

As Royal Challengers Bengaluru prepare to take the field for their long-awaited shot at IPL glory, a surprise yet passionate cheerleader has emerged from across the globe — former British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

With the IPL 2025 final set for a blockbuster showdown between RCB and Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Sunak publicly declared his loyalty to the Bengaluru-based franchise. “I’m married into a Bangalore family, so RCB is my team,” he told Times of India, invoking both personal bonds and cricketing nostalgia.

Sunak’s support is more than symbolic. He’s in India for the final, soaking in the electric atmosphere that surrounds a team chasing its first-ever IPL title after years of heartbreak and “Ee Sala Cup Namde” chants that have become a cult battle cry.

“I proposed to my wife in Kannada — it was a bit clumsy, but heartfelt,” he shared with a smile. His Bengaluru connection runs deep, and cricket has always been a shared language in the Murty household. The RCB jersey gifted to him by his in-laws remains a cherished piece of memorabilia.

At the heart of his RCB fandom lies his admiration for Virat Kohli — “a total legend,” in Sunak’s words. A signed bat from Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also holds pride of place in his collection, a symbol of diplomacy stitched together with cricket.

This isn’t just a sentimental pick. Sunak is backing RCB’s English firepower to deliver on the big stage. “Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone — I’m hoping they step up. Let’s bring it home,” he said, placing faith in the overseas contingent as RCB eye a historic maiden title.

Rishi Sunak on IPL

He also spoke about the IPL’s transformational impact on world cricket. “It’s changed the game. Every cricketer dreams of playing in the IPL now,” Sunak noted. He mentioned rising English talents like Jacob Bethell, whose game has seen a leap thanks to exposure in the IPL setup.

But for Sunak, the IPL isn’t just about cricket — it’s a conduit of cultural connection. He praised the Women’s Premier League for its role in empowering young girls and elevating the women’s game. “It’s a reflection of India’s growing global influence,” he said.

He also spoke fondly of cricket’s role in diplomacy. “Cricket reminds you who your friends are,” he said, citing lighthearted banter with Australian PM Anthony Albanese during the Ashes and fond pre-meeting cricket talks with Indian PM Narendra Modi.

“India’s upcoming tour of England will be special — not just for the cricket, but for the relationship between our countries,” he concluded.

As RCB gear up for their tryst with destiny, their fanbase has grown by one prominent voice — a former PM who’s loud, proud, and firmly behind the red and gold.

Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram