RCB Faces Setback with Loss to SRH in IPL 2025
RCB Suffers Defeat Against SRH
In their IPL 2025 match held at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on May 23, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) faced their fourth defeat of the season, losing by 42 runs to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
Chasing a daunting target of 232 runs, RCB was bowled out for 189 in just 19.5 overs. Phil Salt was the standout performer with the bat, scoring 62 runs off 32 balls, while Virat Kohli added 43 runs from 25 balls. Stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma contributed 24 runs off 15 balls. Unfortunately, the middle-order batsmen failed to support the top order, collapsing under pressure as SRH's bowlers took control in the latter stages of the innings.
Bowling Performance of SRH
Pat Cummins, the SRH captain, led the bowling attack effectively, achieving figures of 3 wickets for 28 runs at an economy rate of 7. Eshan Malinga took two wickets, while Jaydev Unadkat, Harshal Patel, Harsh Dubey, and Nitish Kumar each claimed one wicket.
RCB's Batting Struggles
RCB appeared capable of chasing down SRH's formidable total, reaching 163-3 after 14 overs. With only 69 runs needed from 36 balls and Jitesh Sharma and Rajat Patidar at the crease, victory seemed likely. However, a pivotal moment occurred when Ishan Malinga executed a direct hit to dismiss Patidar, triggering a dramatic collapse. RCB lost 7 wickets for a mere 16 runs in just 26 balls, ultimately finishing at 189 all out.
Disappointment for Kohli and Patidar
The sudden batting collapse was shocking, especially given RCB's strong batting lineup and their aggressive play earlier in the season. Kohli and Patidar, watching from the sidelines, were left in disbelief. After a 20-day break, RCB's performance was concerning, resembling a team still finding its footing.
While winning streaks can build momentum, so can losses. RCB is keen to avoid a repeat of their notorious late-season collapses, but their performance against SRH raises significant concerns.
Powerplay Performance and Bowling Issues
During the powerplay, SRH scored 71 runs while losing only two wickets, exposing RCB's inability to control the scoring rate. The absence of Josh Hazlewood was felt, as his replacement Lungi Ngidi conceded 51 runs in four overs. Hazlewood's all-around bowling skills were sorely missed.
Having taken 18 wickets in ten matches with an impressive economy rate, his potential return from injury is crucial for RCB. Meanwhile, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Suyash Sharma's ongoing poor performances add to the team's challenges.
Injury Concerns for RCB
Tim David's hamstring injury while fielding further complicates RCB's situation. He struggled to run during his batting stint, and his finishing skills, along with a strike rate of 185, have been vital for RCB's success. His availability for upcoming matches remains uncertain.
Additionally, Jacob Bethley's return and Devdutt Padikkal's absence create further complications. Mayank Agarwal, stepping in at number three, underperformed. Although the break helped captain Patidar, he has yet to regain full match fitness, having only batted against SRH. The inconsistency of both Patidar and Jitesh Sharma is another area of concern.
Positive Signs Amidst Challenges
Despite the setbacks, Phil Salt's return and his batting performance provide some hope for RCB. Kohli's consistent excellence remains a key factor. Jitesh acknowledged that the defeat reveals weaknesses that need addressing. Regrouping and rediscovering their rhythm is essential for RCB's future success.