RCB Dominates PBKS to Secure IPL 2025 Final Spot

In a thrilling encounter, Royal Challengers Bengaluru showcased their dominance over Punjab Kings, securing a spot in the IPL 2025 final. After a dismal batting performance from PBKS, who were bowled out for just 101 runs, RCB chased down the target in a record time of 10 overs. This victory marks RCB's fourth final appearance, as they aim for their first IPL title. With historical trends favoring the team that wins Qualifier 1, RCB is poised for a strong challenge in the final.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 29, 2025, 23:05 IST

RCB's Commanding Victory

The highly awaited match between the top-ranked Royal Challengers Bengaluru and the second-placed Punjab Kings ended in a one-sided contest, with RCB showcasing an impressive performance that secured their place in the IPL 2025 final.

Punjab Kings' Disappointing Performance

Punjab Kings faced a tough start after losing the toss and being asked to bat first on a challenging pitch in Mullanpur. Their innings struggled to gain momentum as both openers fell quickly. Josh Hazlewood was relentless with the new ball, taking out crucial players Shreyas Iyer and Josh Inglis early on. Following the collapse of the top order, Suyash Sharma made a significant impact, claiming three wickets and dismantling the middle and lower order. Poor shot selection further exacerbated PBKS's troubles, leading to their dismissal for a mere 101 runs.

RCB's Swift Chase

RCB's chase was both rapid and ruthless. Although they faced a minor setback when Kyle Jamieson bowled a remarkable second over, dismissing Virat Kohli and putting Mayank Agarwal under pressure, he couldn't sustain that intensity. His next over conceded 21 runs, shifting the momentum back to Bengaluru.

Phil Salt spearheaded the attack with a stunning half-century off just 23 balls, aggressively targeting Arshdeep Singh and the PBKS bowlers. He formed a quick fifty-run partnership with Agarwal, which nearly sealed the match. Although Agarwal was dismissed after a brief innings, RCB was firmly in control. The captain fittingly hit the winning runs, leading RCB to a total of 102/3 in precisely 10 overs.

This impressive chase ranks among the fastest successful chases of 100+ runs in IPL history, with RCB achieving this milestone in just 10 overs.

Fourth Final Appearance for RCB

This victory marks RCB's fourth entry into an IPL final, having previously reached this stage in 2009, 2011, and 2016, and now in 2025. Historically, teams winning Qualifier 1 have lifted the trophy in 11 of the last 14 seasons, including the last seven consecutively.

With both momentum and historical trends in their favor, RCB is now focused on capturing their first IPL title.