In the IPL 2025 season, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) secured a direct berth in the final with a dominant performance over Punjab Kings in Qualifier-1. The match, played at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh, turned out to be a completely one-sided affair. RCB triumphed by 8 wickets, pushing Punjab Kings into Qualifier-2 for another chance to reach the final.
RCB captain Rajat Patidar won the toss and opted to bowl first. Justifying his decision, the RCB bowlers launched a fiery attack right from the outset, dismantling the Punjab batting lineup. Punjab Kings failed to complete their allotted 20 overs and were bowled out for just 101 runs in 14.1 overs.
Chasing a modest target, RCB opener Phil Salt gave his team a blazing start. He remained unbeaten, scoring 56 runs off just 27 balls, including 6 fours and 3 sixes, playing a crucial role in the team’s victory. Although Virat Kohli (12 runs off 12 balls; 2 fours) was dismissed early, Mayank Agarwal (19 runs off 13 balls; 2 fours, 1 six) maintained the momentum. Captain Rajat Patidar later joined Salt to complete the formalities, scoring an unbeaten 15 runs off 8 balls with 1 four and 1 six. RCB reached the target with ease, scoring 106 runs for 2 wickets in just 10 overs. Among the Punjab bowlers, Jamieson and Musheer Khan claimed one wicket each. RCB had already amassed 61 runs during the powerplay.
The IPL 2025 final is scheduled for June 3. The Eliminator match between Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians is set to take place tomorrow. The winner of that game will face Punjab Kings in Qualifier-2 on June 1. The victor of Qualifier-2 will then meet Royal Challengers Bangalore in the final BL
