Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have ended their nine-year wait to reach an IPL final with a commanding 8-wicket victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025, held at Mullanpur on Thursday. A clinical all-round performance from the visitors ensured their place in the final, leaving the Punjab Kings and their fans disappointed.
PBKS Struggle Against RCB’s Fearsome Bowling
Batting first after winning the toss, Punjab Kings faltered early and often. The opening partnership failed to deliver as Priyansh Arya was dismissed cheaply by Yash Dayal. RCB’s pace attack, led by Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, kept the hosts in check, strangling the run rate with precise line and length.
Punjab’s powerplay ended with a dismal score of 48/4, with top-order batters like Prabhsimran Singh and Shreyas Iyer departing early. The middle order faced further carnage as Suyash Sharma spun his magic, claiming crucial wickets and dismantling any semblance of resistance from PBKS.
Marcus Stoinis attempted to steady the ship with a brief cameo, but his effort was in vain as wickets continued to tumble. Ricky Ponting’s gamble to include debutant Musheer Khan backfired, with the youngster unable to make an impact. PBKS were bowled out for a paltry 101, a total that underscored their batting woes.
Phil Salt Anchors the Chase
RCB’s chase was a smooth affair, led by a composed half-century from Phil Salt. The English wicketkeeper-batter showcased his class and temperament, anchoring the innings with well-timed strokes. Salt received solid support from skipper Faf du Plessis, ensuring the visitors never faced any undue pressure.
The target was achieved with ease in just 13 overs, marking a dominant 8-wicket win for RCB. The result not only secured their place in the final but also showcased their balanced team performance in a high-pressure match.
A Glorious Return to the Final
RCB’s last IPL final appearance was in 2016, making this qualification a long-awaited moment of joy for their fans. With their bowlers in top form and the batting unit clicking, the team will head into the final brimming with confidence.
The IPL 2025 final promises to be an exciting affair as RCB look to clinch their maiden title, ending years of heartbreak and near misses. Fans and critics alike are eager to see if this could finally be RCB’s year to shine.
