Royal Challengers Bengaluru Dominates Punjab Kings to Reach IPL 2025 Final

In a thrilling encounter, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) showcased their dominance over Punjab Kings (PBKS) to secure a place 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 in IPL history, as they aim for their first title. With a strong performance and historical momentum on their side, RCB is poised for a significant showdown ahead.

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

RCB Secures Spot in IPL 2025 Final

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

Punjab Kings Struggles

From the very beginning, Punjab Kings faced challenges. After losing the toss and being asked to bat first on a tricky pitch in Mullanpur, their innings struggled to gain momentum. Both openers were dismissed cheaply, and the situation deteriorated further. 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 entered the scene and dismantled the middle and lower order with an impressive three-wicket haul. Poor shot selection added to PBKS's troubles, leading to their dismissal for a mere 101 runs.

RCB's Swift Chase

RCB's response was swift and aggressive. Although they faced a minor setback when Kyle Jamieson bowled a remarkable second over, claiming the wickets of Virat Kohli and troubling Mayank Agarwal, he could not sustain the pressure. His next over saw 21 runs scored, shifting the momentum back to Bengaluru's favor.

Phil Salt spearheaded the attack with a rapid 23-ball half-century, 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 just 10 overs.

This dominant chase ranks among the fastest successful chases of 100+ runs in IPL history, with RCB achieving this milestone in a mere 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. Historically, the team that wins Qualifier 1 has gone on to win the championship in 11 of the last 14 seasons, including the last seven consecutively.

With both momentum and history on their side, RCB is now focused on capturing their first IPL title.