Pallavi Sharma
DHARAMSHALA: As the final over sealed Punjab Kings’ fate in the IPL 2025 final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, all eyes turned to the team’s co-owner Preity Zinta — not just for her celebrity presence, but for the raw emotion she couldn’t hold back.
The Himachal-born actor was visibly heartbroken as her team fell to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), marking another missed opportunity for a franchise she has stood by since its inception.
Emotional end to a long-awaited dream
Dressed in a white kurta and red dupatta, Preity stood at the edge of the field at the Narendra Modi Stadium, watching as her team’s title hopes slipped away. Her expressions — a blend of sadness, pride and silent encouragement — were caught on camera, instantly going viral across social media.
RCB clinched their maiden IPL title with a commanding six-wicket win, thanks to clinical spells by Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash Dayal. For Punjab Kings, it was their second final — and their first in 11 years — but once again, the trophy remained elusive.
From Consolation to class: Preity’s post-match grace
Despite the heartbreak, Preity made her way toward the Punjab Kings players after the match, offering hugs and words of support. She was seen speaking with captain Shreyas Iyer and other squad members, encouraging them for their efforts throughout a remarkable season.
While the stadium celebrated RCB’s historic win — ending their 18-year title drought — cameras focused on Preity’s subdued walk off the field. Her face reflected the pain of a dream deferred, but also the pride of a co-owner who has stayed by her team’s side in both triumph and defeat.
