Ambati Rayudu takes a dig at RCB despite Sanjay Bangar’s warning during Champions Trophy final

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Ambati Rayudu couldn’t resist taking a dig at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) while commentating during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final between India and New Zealand. While India secured a thrilling four-wicket victory to claim their third Champions Trophy title, Rayudu used the opportunity to poke fun at the IPL franchise.

During the match, former RCB head coach Sanjay Bangar was praising the team’s resilience and their ability to stage comebacks in recent IPL seasons. Bangar, who coached RCB in 2022, spoke highly of the franchise’s progress and their chances of going a step further in the future.

“The team's performance has been consistent for the last 4-5 years. The side has reached the playoffs on four occasions. Last year, after losing seven matches and then finishing in the playoffs, it was the greatest comeback. Once you make a comeback like this, the side can cross the next hurdle,” said Bangar.

However, Rayudu couldn’t resist the opportunity to poke fun at RCB’s playoff struggles. He immediately responded by saying that RCB’s “next hurdle” would be reaching Qualifier 2, referencing their elimination in the Eliminator last season.

“Right, Sanjay Bhai (Brother). RCB will cross the next hurdle. So next time, RCB will reach Qualifier 2 (laughs),” Rayudu quipped.

Bangar, realizing how RCB fans might react, quickly warned Rayudu against making such remarks, but the former CSK batter remained unfazed.

“Let them watch,” Ambat Rayudu said, doubling down on his dig

Rayudu’s history of taunting RCB fans dates back to IPL 2024 when RCB eliminated CSK from playoff contention with a 27-run victory in their final group-stage match at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. His disappointment was evident in the commentary box, and he later mocked RCB’s post-match celebrations, suggesting they behaved as if they had won the IPL title.

His comments sparked a backlash from RCB supporters, who trolled him heavily on social media. Since then, Rayudu has shared a love-hate relationship with the RCB fan base and never misses a chance to take a jab at them.

Meanwhile, RCB will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders on March 22 in Kolkata.

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