Punjab Kings (PBKS) has achieved an unprecedented feat, becoming the most-searched Indian Premier League (IPL) team on Google in 2025, outranking traditional giants like RCB, CSK, and MI. This digital milestone is a strong indicator of the franchise’s expanding international footprint and robust online presence. Beyond cricket, PBKS also secured an impressive fourth position globally in the Top 5 Most Searched Sports Teams list, a testament to their widespread appeal.
This significant rise in search volume is closely linked to Punjab Kings’ remarkable journey in IPL 2025. Led by new captain Shreyas Iyer, the team reached the IPL final, marking their first appearance in the championship match since 2014. Although they ultimately fell short against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, their compelling run ignited widespread interest. The team’s strategic moves prior to the season, including the massive Rs 26.75 crore signing of Shreyas Iyer, the appointment of renowned coach Ricky Ponting, and key player acquisitions such as Yuzvendra Chahal, contributed significantly to the increased online buzz. The combination of on-field performance and strategic team building fostered a sustained level of curiosity that Google’s search data has now recognized. According to Saurabh Arora, Chief Commercial Officer, this global recognition validates the team’s commitment to building an emotionally resonant brand. He highlighted that fans’ engagement with the team’s narrative and culture is crucial to their success both on and off the field.