Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Suryavanshi named most impressive debutant by fans across India.
The 23 Watts Insights Studio has released its much-anticipated fan sentiment report for IPL 2025, titled “The IPL Pulse.”Based on insights from over 5,000 cricket enthusiasts across 10 major Indian cities, the report dives deep into evolving fan perspectives, emerging stars, and predictions for the league’s outcome this season.
Surveying fans from Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Jaipur, and Chandigarh – up to Match 55 (Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad) – the study provides a real-time pulse on how the nation is experiencing IPL 2025.
RCB Leads the Race for the Trophy
According to the findings, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) leads the title predictions with 44% of fans backing them to win the championship this year. They are followed by Delhi Capitals (12%), Punjab Kings (7%), and Lucknow Super Giants (2%). While these teams dominate the top picks, traditional powerhouses like Mumbai Indians (13%) and Chennai Super Kings (12%) continue to enjoy strong support from their loyal fan bases.
Interestingly, 65% of respondents believe IPL 2025 will crown a new champion, indicating a shift in sentiment towards underdog narratives and rising teams.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi Tops the Debutant Charts
Among the fresh faces in IPL 2025, Rajasthan Royals’ teenager Vaibhav Suryavanshi has emerged as the standout debutant, garnering 31.4% of the votes. Fans praised his on-field skills and game-changing performances. He is followed by Ashwani Kumar of Mumbai Indians (21%), Ryan Rickelton (15.8%), Aniket Verma of Sunrisers Hyderabad (15.7%), and Vipraj Nigam of Delhi Capitals (12.5%).
Fast Bowlers Steal the Spotlight
On the bowling front, Jasprit Bumrah of Mumbai Indians remains the most feared opponent, with 32.4% of fans naming him the toughest bowler to face. He is closely trailed by Noor Ahmad from Chennai Super Kings, who earned 28.4% of the vote. Overall, 65.3% of fans feel that fast bowlers pose a greater challenge than spinners in this season of IPL.
Dhoni Still Commands the Crowd
In a resounding show of loyalty, 73% of fans expressed their desire to see MS Dhoni continue playing, underlining the enduring legacy of “Thala” in Indian cricket. Despite ongoing discussions around his retirement, Dhoni’s popularity remains unshaken.
Format Changes Welcome, Say Fans
The introduction of new rules, especially the Impact Player rule, has been well received. A notable 78% of respondents feel that the rule has added a strategic layer to the game, enhancing viewer engagement and excitement.
“The IPL Pulse” offers a compelling look into how fans are connecting with the tournament—not just as spectators, but as active participants shaping the narrative of IPL 2025.
