In a commanding performance, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) overwhelmed Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1, securing a spot in the final.
The match, held at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, witnessed RCB’s bowlers dismantling PBKS for a paltry 101 runs, followed by a steady chase to clinch victory.
Toss and Team Changes
RCB’s captain Rajat Patidar, returning from injury, won the toss and elected to field first. The team made a strategic change by bringing back Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood in place of Nuwan Thushara.
PBKS, on the other hand, replaced Marco Jansen with Azmatullah Omarzai due to Jansen’s return to South Africa for national duties.
PBKS Innings: A Collapse Under Pressure
PBKS’s batting lineup crumbled under RCB’s relentless bowling attack. Within 14.1 overs, they were bowled out for just 101 runs, marking one of the lowest totals in IPL playoff history. Key contributors to this collapse included:
- Josh Hazlewood: Returning to the XI, he took crucial wickets, including that of Shreyas Iyer.
- Suyash Sharma: Delivered a game-changing over, claiming three wickets and dismantling the middle order.
- Yash Dayal and Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Provided early breakthroughs, setting the tone for the innings.
The top-order batsmen, including Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, and Josh Inglis, failed to establish a foundation, leading to a rapid downfall. Marcus Stoinis was the top scorer with 26 runs.
RCB’s Chase: Clinical and Composed
Chasing a modest target of 102, RCB’s openers, Virat Kohli and Philip Salt, provided a solid start. Their composed approach ensured there were no early hiccups, and the team reached the target comfortably, securing their place in the final.
Key Takeaways
- RCB’s Bowling Mastery: The bowlers executed their plans flawlessly, exploiting the pitch conditions and applying constant pressure.
- PBKS’s Batting Woes: The inability to build partnerships and counter RCB’s bowling led to their downfall.
- Strategic Decisions: RCB’s decision to field first and the inclusion of Hazlewood paid dividends.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, RCB advances directly to the IPL 2025 final, awaiting the winner of Qualifier 2. PBKS, despite the loss, will have another opportunity to reach the final by competing in Qualifier 2 against the winner of the Eliminator match.