RCB Aims for Top-Two Finish Against Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL Clash

Royal Challengers Bengaluru is set to clash with Sunrisers Hyderabad in a crucial IPL match, aiming for a top-two finish for the first time in nine years. With RCB currently second on the table and in strong form, they look to secure victories in their remaining matches. Key players like Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar will be pivotal, while Sunrisers Hyderabad seeks to build on their recent win. This match promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams strive for success in the league.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 22, 2025, 15:39 IST

RCB's Playoff Aspirations

Having already secured a spot in the playoffs, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) is set to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in their Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Friday, with hopes of achieving a top-two finish for the first time in nine years.

The last time RCB finished in the top two was during the 2016 season, where they ended as runners-up.

Currently, RCB holds the second position on the points table with 17 points from 12 matches, and winning their remaining two games could solidify their place among the top teams.

Match Rescheduling and Recent Form

Originally scheduled to be a home game for RCB, this fixture was moved due to the arrival of the monsoon season.

Before the league faced disruption due to the India-Pakistan military conflict, RCB was in excellent form, having achieved four consecutive victories.

However, their momentum was interrupted by a washout in their first match after the break. After a 20-day hiatus, it will be intriguing to see if they can maintain their competitive edge.

Key Players and Performance Insights

In pursuit of their first IPL title, RCB has displayed one of their most consistent performances in recent years.

Virat Kohli has been a standout player, amassing seven fifties in 11 innings and providing stability at the top of the order.

Support from skipper Rajat Patidar, Tim David, and Romario Shepherd has been crucial, especially with their impactful hitting.

However, Patidar's form dipped just before the break, averaging only 10.6 in his last five matches after a strong start.

A finger injury sustained during a match against Chennai Super Kings had sidelined him, but he has shown promising signs by batting freely in the nets.

Bowling Strengths and Challenges

The spin duo of Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma has been effective, while Josh Hazlewood and Yash Dayal have handled the pressure overs well.

Unfortunately, Hazlewood will miss this match as he continues to recover from a shoulder injury.

On a positive note, most of RCB's international players are available for this match and the upcoming fixtures.

Sunrisers Hyderabad's Recent Performance

Sunrisers Hyderabad, last year's finalists, are coming off a solid six-wicket victory against Lucknow Super Giants and are eager to finish this challenging season on a high note.

Despite moments of brilliance from explosive openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, consistency has been a challenge, placing them eighth on the table.

Their bowling lineup, which includes notable players like skipper Pat Cummins and Indian pacer Mohammad Shami, has struggled to perform cohesively in critical situations.