After years of anticipation and a loyal fanbase yearning for glory, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have finally clinched their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title. In an emotional and high-octane final against Punjab Kings (PBKS), the match not only delivered thrilling cricket but also set a new digital milestone, with JioHotstar recording an astonishing 61.8 crore cumulative views by the time the final ball was bowled.
As per a detailed report by The Mint, this monumental figure represents the total number of plays during the match, including repeat streaming by the same user, highlighting the immense engagement and captivated audience that followed every twist and turn of the final showdown. The 61.8 crore views are a testament to the nation’s grip on the match, as fans remained hooked to their screens from start to finish.
RCB, batting first, began their innings steadily. By 10.2 overs, with the score at 90 for 2 and the formidable duo of Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar at the crease, JioHotstar had already logged an impressive 20.3 crore views. Even after Patidar’s dismissal at 10.5 overs, the momentum continued, with views surging to 32.3 crore by the halfway mark. As RCB concluded their innings at 190 for 9, total views had climbed to 34.9 crore.
The chase by Punjab Kings, in pursuit of 191, proved equally enthralling and kept viewership numbers soaring. At 9.2 overs into their innings, with 80 for 2 on the scoreboard, the platform had already recorded 49.8 crore views. As the match approached its nail-biting climax, with PBKS at 149 for 7, JioHotstar crossed the 60 crore mark. With just seven balls remaining and PBKS still behind, viewership stood at a staggering 60.5 crore. Despite a valiant final-over effort from Punjab Kings, featuring two sixes and two fours, they ultimately fell short. The view counter reached its record high of 61.8 crore the moment the final ball was bowled.
As the stadium erupted in joyous celebration, RCB’s talisman, Virat Kohli, was seen overcome with emotion, dropping to his knees, touching his forehead to the ground, and embracing teammates. It was a moment of profound release for RCB fans, who had patiently waited for this victorious day for nearly 18 seasons.
The surge in streaming numbers for the IPL has been a consistent trend. Last season, the official digital broadcaster JioCinema reported a 38 percent growth in audience reach, from 449 million to 620 million. This year’s broadcast shift to JioHotstar for the final proved equally impactful, setting an unprecedented benchmark in online sports viewership.
The 2025 IPL final transcended a mere cricket match; it became a cultural event, a digital spectacle, and above all, a redemption story nearly two decades in the making. RCB’s long-awaited triumph has now been immortalized not just in the history books but also in the hearts of millions and on the servers that meticulously tracked every single ball.
Key Highlights:
- Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) won their first-ever IPL title in a final against Punjab Kings (PBKS).
- JioHotstar recorded a record 61.8 crore cumulative views during the final match, marking a new digital milestone for sports streaming.
- Viewership steadily climbed throughout both innings, reaching its peak as the match approached its thrilling conclusion.
- RCB’s victory is a significant redemption story for the franchise, further highlighted by the massive digital engagement.