"RCB Storms into IPL 2025 Final with Crushing Win Over PBKS in Qualifier 1"
RCB's Dominance: Royal Challengers Bengaluru Storm into IPL 2025 Final with Commanding Win Over Punjab Kings
The IPL 2025 season has been nothing short of electrifying, and the first Qualifier match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), held on May 29, 2025, added another glorious chapter to this high-octane tournament. In a match that lasted just over 24 overs in total, RCB delivered a near-perfect performance to defeat PBKS by 8 wickets and secure their spot in the IPL 2025 Final.
This victory marks RCB's return to the final after nine years, reigniting hopes among their massive fanbase for a long-awaited title.
Match Summary: PBKS vs RCB – Qualifier 1
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Date: 29 May 2025
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Venue: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
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Result: Royal Challengers Bengaluru won by 8 wickets
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PBKS Score: 101 all out in 14.1 overs
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RCB Score: 106/2 in 10.0 overs
Punjab Kings: A Collapse Under Pressure
Punjab Kings entered the Qualifier with strong performances throughout the league stage. However, the high-stakes pressure of the playoffs seemed to overwhelm the batting lineup. Sent in to bat first, PBKS failed to establish any rhythm.
Early Setback
From the outset, RCB’s bowlers were on the mark. Mohammed Siraj provided an early breakthrough, dismissing Prabhsimran Singh in the second over. It set the tone for a batting collapse. The dangerous Jonny Bairstow was cleaned up by Yash Dayal with a peach of a delivery. By the end of the powerplay, PBKS were reeling at 35/3.
Middle-Order Meltdown
The middle-order fared no better. Liam Livingstone, the power-hitter PBKS heavily relied on, was dismissed cheaply by Karn Sharma. Sikandar Raza and Shashank Singh tried to steady the ship, but the relentless pressure from RCB's bowlers was too much. Wickets kept tumbling at regular intervals, and PBKS was bowled out for a meager 101 runs in just 14.1 overs.
RCB’s Bowling Masterclass
Bowling Figures:
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Suyash Sharma: 3/21 (4 overs)
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Karn Sharma: 2/18 (3 overs)
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Yash Dayal: 2/19 (3.1 overs)
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Mohammed Siraj: 1/12 (2 overs)
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Glenn Maxwell: 1/8 (1 over)
This was one of RCB’s best bowling performances in IPL knockout matches, showcasing the balance and depth of their bowling attack.
RCB’s Batting: A Statement Chase
Chasing 102 was expected to be a straightforward task, but RCB made it look like a net practice session.
Phil Salt’s Blazing Knock
Opening the innings with intent, Phil Salt smashed the bowlers all over the park. He brought up his half-century in just 22 balls and finished the match unbeaten with 56 runs off 27 deliveries, including 6 fours and 3 sixes. His fearless batting dismantled PBKS's bowling plans within the powerplay.
Supporting Acts
While captain Faf du Plessis got out early, Virat Kohli chipped in with a steady 24 (16 balls) before getting dismissed. Cameron Green and Phil Salt then finished the chase comfortably in the 10th over, sending RCB to the final with 60 balls to spare.
Player of the Match: Phil Salt
Without a doubt, the English opener earned the Player of the Match award for his fearless knock under pressure. Salt has been RCB’s key contributor throughout the season and delivered yet again when it mattered most.
Phil Salt's IPL 2025 So Far:
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Matches: 12
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Runs: 460
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Strike Rate: 161
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Fifties: 5
His explosive starts have consistently given RCB momentum and confidence in their batting unit.
Key Highlights of the Match
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PBKS bowled out for 101 – their lowest playoff total ever.
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RCB chased it down in just 10 overs – one of the fastest successful run chases in IPL knockout history.
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Suyash Sharma’s match-winning 3-wicket haul.
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Phil Salt’s fiery 56 that sealed the win.*
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RCB reaching the final for the first time since 2016.
What This Win Means for RCB
This win isn’t just about reaching the final – it’s a redemption arc. After years of heartbreak, playoff exits, and fan frustration, RCB is finally back in the IPL Final. With a balanced team, in-form top order, and sharp bowling attack, they look stronger than ever to lift their first IPL trophy.
The presence of match-winners like Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Maxwell, and Siraj gives them the edge. And with the momentum on their side, they are now the favorites to take home the coveted trophy.
What’s Next?
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RCB advances to the IPL 2025 Final.
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PBKS will now play the winner of the Eliminator Match in Qualifier 2, for another chance to reach the final.
The journey is not yet over for Punjab Kings, but they’ll need to regroup quickly and work on their batting strategies before their next clash.
Fan Reactions
Social media exploded with celebratory messages from RCB fans, who have been waiting for a finals appearance for nearly a decade. Hashtags like #EeSalaCupNamde, #RCBFinals2025, and #PhilSalt🔥 trended within minutes of the match ending.
Here are a few fan tweets:
"RCB in Final after 9 years! What a game! Phil Salt 🔥 and Suyash Sharma – Legends in the making. #RCB #IPL2025Final"
– @CricketLover
"PBKS forgot it's a playoff match. What a collapse! Hats off to RCB bowlers. Final, here we come! #EeSalaCupNamde"
– @RCBFanatic
Final Thoughts
RCB's performance in Qualifier 1 was nothing short of spectacular. From restricting PBKS to a modest total to chasing it down with dominance, this match showed how well-rounded and determined this 2025 RCB squad truly is.
As they await their opponent in the final, all eyes will be on whether this team can finally break the jinx and bring the trophy home. But one thing is certain – RCB has sent a clear message: They are here to conquer.
FAQs
Q1. When is the IPL 2025 Final?
The IPL 2025 Final will be played on June 2, 2025 at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
Q2. Who will RCB play in the Final?
RCB will face the winner of Qualifier 2, which will be played between Punjab Kings and the Eliminator Match Winner.
Q3. Has RCB ever won the IPL before?
No, RCB has reached the finals three times before (2009, 2011, and 2016) but has never won the title. 2025 could finally be their year.
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