Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a commanding eight-wicket victory against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025, earning a spot in the final for the fourth time in franchise history.
Match held at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium in Mullanpur, saw RCB chase down a modest target of 102 runs in just 10 overs, finishing with 60 balls to spare.
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Opting to bowl first after winning toss, RCB’s bowling attack dismantled Punjab Kings, bundling them out for a mere 101 runs in 14.1 overs. Josh Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma led the charge, each claiming three wickets, while Yash Dayal chipped in with two. Marcus Stoinis top-scored for PBKS with 26 runs, but no other batter crossed 20-run mark as team struggled against RCB’s disciplined bowling on a pitch offering seam and bounce.
Chasing 102, RCB faced early pressure when Kyle Jamieson dismissed Virat Kohli for 12 in a wicket-maiden over. However, Phil Salt’s blistering 56 not out off 27 balls, including six fours and three sixes, powered RCB to victory.
Captain Rajat Patidar sealed the chase with a massive six finishing unbeaten on 15. The win marked largest victory margin by balls remaining in IPL playoff history.
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Despite the loss, Punjab Kings remain in contention for final. They will face the winner of Eliminator match between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans scheduled for May 30, 2025, in Mullanpur. Victor of Qualifier 2 will meet RCB in IPL 2025 final on June 3 in Ahmedabad.