In a commanding display of cricketing prowess, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured their place in the IPL 2025 final by defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in Qualifier 1 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur.
RCB’s Bowling Masterclass
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, RCB’s bowlers unleashed a relentless attack on PBKS’s batting lineup. The pace trio of Josh Hazlewood (3/21), Yash Dayal (2/26), and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/17) exploited the pitch conditions expertly, dismantling the top order.
Spinner Suyash Sharma further compounded PBKS’s woes with a remarkable spell, claiming 3 wickets for just 17 runs. His dismissals included key middle-order batsmen, effectively sealing PBKS’s fate.
PBKS’s Batting Collapse
PBKS’s innings never gained momentum, with only a few batsmen reaching double figures. The team was bundled out for a paltry 101 runs in 14.1 overs, setting an unwanted playoff record for one of the lowest totals in IPL playoff history.
RCB’s Swift Chase
Chasing a modest target, RCB’s opening batsman Phil Salt led the charge with an unbeaten 56 off 27 balls. His aggressive approach ensured that RCB reached the target in just 10 overs, finishing at 106/2.
Kohli’s Quest for Glory
Despite scoring only 12 runs in the match, Virat Kohli’s leadership and consistent performance throughout the season have been instrumental in RCB’s journey to the final. This victory brings him closer to his maiden IPL title, a feat he has been pursuing since the league’s inception.
Looking Ahead
RCB will now prepare for the IPL 2025 final scheduled for June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Their opponent will be determined by the outcome of the upcoming matches in the playoff stage.
This emphatic win not only boosts RCB’s confidence but also sets the stage for an exciting conclusion to the IPL 2025 season.
